The Battle of Verdun is one of the most well known and infamous battles in history, and one of the pivotal engagements of World War I. While it is remembered for acts of horror, bravery, and honour, it is also closely entwined with the ring of fortifications built to defend the key town of Verdun on the river Meuse, which lay in the path of the German attack. The words of General Coutanceau, military governor of the fortress from 1912 to 1915, are indicative of the spirit of the fortress troops : 'Better to be buried under the ruins of a fort than to surrender it." Fully illustrated with artywork, maps and photographs, and backed up with detailed technical data, this book explores the design, development and combat history of this iconic French fortress. -- back cover.

Introduction -- Chronology -- Design and development -- Tour of the site -- Principles of defence -- The living site -- The site in war : The fall of Fort Douaumont ; Fort Vaux ; The Friodeterre works ; Fort Douaumont in October -- Aftermath -- The site today -- Bibliography -- Glossary -- Index.