Longueval is a destination with a clear historical focus: memorials, cemeteries and a museum commemorate the involvement of various nations in conflicts of the 20th century. The focus is not just on a shared history of war. The South African Memorial, the New Zealand National Memorial and the Indian Memorial each highlight different aspects; the cemeteries add specific links to those buried there. Arranging the sites by their historical themes can help visitors distinguish between the different memories.
South African Memorial Sites
The South African Memorial in Longueval commemorates South Africa’s involvement in the First and Second World Wars and the Korean War. It is recognised as a World Heritage Site. Opposite the memorial is a military cemetery where 5,523 soldiers are buried; 3,593 of them are unidentified.
The Delville Wood Commemorative Museum gives visitors the opportunity to learn more about South Africa’s involvement in the major conflicts of the 20th century. It was built around the Cross of Consecration. The Delville Wood Cemetery is the resting place of 160 South Africans, including eight who served in imperial units; 65 South African burials are unidentified by name.
Visitors who choose the South African connection as a guiding theme for their trip will find it reflected in three ways: the memorial commemorates involvement in several conflicts, the museum offers a way to learn about 20th-century history, and the Delville Wood Cemetery brings the people buried there into focus. The three sites complement one another in their subject matter without telling the same story.
New Zealand and Indian Memorial Sites
The New Zealand National Memorial was built at the site designated as the New Zealand Division’s final objective during the First Battle of the Somme, from 1 July to 18 November 1916. This gives the memorial a specific historical connection. The nearby Caterpillar Valley Cemetery contains 125 graves of New Zealand soldiers. A designated military objective and the graves of New Zealand soldiers thus offer different perspectives on remembrance.
The Indian Memorial in Longueval commemorates the involvement and sacrifice of Indian troops serving the British Empire. It stands on a hill opposite the Bois des Fourcaux. Its historical focus differs from the South African and New Zealand connections, broadening the perspective on the troops involved.
Anzac Day and Routes Through Longueval
Anzac Day also features in the commemorative calendar: a remembrance event is held in Longueval every year around this date. If you are planning to travel specifically for the occasion, check the exact event date before booking.
The Circuit du Souvenir passes through Longueval and continues towards Albert. The 58-kilometre cycling route Les chemins de la grande Guerre dans la Somme (Boucle A) follows the First World War battlefields along the Somme and includes Longueval. These are two distinct route connections: the Circuit du Souvenir is described as continuing towards Albert, while Boucle A is described by its total distance and as a cycling route. Check the route conditions before cycling Boucle A.
Discover more destinations: Montigny-Sur-L'hallue, Courcelles-Au-Bois, Lignières-En-Vimeu, Ault, Mesnil-Domqueur, Forest-Montiers, Mers-Les-Bains, Assevillers
For the broader travel overview: Somme.
