Hitler’s Bunker in Brûly-de-Pesche

In May 1940, the tiny village of Brûly-de-Pesche was selected for a unique construction. Here’s how to visit Hitler’s bunker.

Introducing Brûly-de-Pesche

Brûly-de-Pesche is a small Belgian village in the municipality of Couvin, near the French border. During the early stages of the Second World War, the village was chosen as a strategic headquarters for Adolf Hitler.

Construction of Hitler’s bunker

Construction began in late May 1940. The construction site included the main bunker, chalets used as barracks, and other facilities necessary for Hitler and his high command. Capable of withstanding aerial bombardments, the main bunker was a small cube, seven meters on each side, that could only accommodate the Führer and his entourage in a room of just six square meters. It was accessible by two armoured doors and was well-camouflaged and fortified. The facilities were equipped with communication systems, maps, and other logistical necessities to enable the coordination of military operations. The complex was connected to Berlin via a special telephone line for secure communications.

Hitler named the site “Wolfsschlucht” (The Wolf’s Ravine). It was one of several Führerhauptquartiere (Führer Headquarters) used throughout the war. The construction of the bunker complex significantly disrupted the lives of local residents. Many were evacuated to make way for the Nazi high command, and the village was heavily fortified and secured during Hitler’s stay.

Usage of the bunker

Adolf Hitler stayed at the Brûly-de-Pesche site from June 6 to June 24, 1940. This period was crucial as it overlapped with the critical phases of the Battle of France, including the Dunkirk evacuation and the subsequent French armistice. During his stay, Hitler and his high command orchestrated military operations and made key strategic decisions that influenced the course of the campaign in Western Europe.

While at the Brûly-de-Pesche site, Hitler followed a strict routine, involving briefings, discussions with his generals, and receiving reports from the front lines. Despite the intense military activities, he maintained personal habits, and liked to go a daily walk in the surrounding woods. The actual bunker itself was never used as a refuge from aerial bombardment since the site was never targeted by Allied aircraft.

On June 17 1940, Hitler learned the content of Marshal Pétain’s resigned speech. It was in the church of Brûly-de-Pesche that the act of capitulation of France was drawn up.

The bunker today

Today, Hitler’s bunker at Brûly-de-Pesche has been preserved and is open to the public as a historical monument. Visitors can explore the bunker, see the command center, and learn about the events that took place there through various exhibitions. The site is open to visitors and offers guided tours in multiple languages, including German, English, French, and Dutch.

Where to find Hitler’s Bunker

You can find it at Place Saint-Méen, 5660 Brûly-de-Pesche. More information is available on the Brûly-de-Pesche 1940 website.

More on the Second World War

If you are interested in discovering more about the role of Belgium during the Second World War, check out my series of articles on the Second World War.

Where to stay in Brûly-de-Pesche

The whole area is well worth exploring and I have written elsewhere on this website about hiking around nearby Chimay. A highly recommended B&B in the area is B&B Haut Brûly, while L’évasion du berger australien is a well-equipped 1-bedroom apartment. Slightly further away but extremely well rated is La Libellule guesthouse. The area has many lovely accommodation possibilities; use the link to find something according to your tastes:

Denzil Walton

I created Discovering Belgium in 2011 to share the country’s hidden stories, fascinating places, and remarkable people. Through articles, photography, and audio walks, I share discoveries that reveal Belgium beyond the obvious. Hope you enjoy this site.