What were the trenches like at Vimy Ridge?
Each year thousands of tourists visit the Canadian National Vimy Memorial in France and tour the First World War tunnels and trenches. The trenches were muddy, wet and rat-infested during the war, but today parts have been reinforced with concrete to be preserved for tourists.
Was there trenches in the Battle of Vimy Ridge?
Germany captured Vimy Ridge early in the war and transformed it into a strong defensive position, with a complex system of tunnels and trenches manned by highly trained soldiers with many machine guns and artillery pieces.
What was unique about the Battle of Vimy Ridge?
The Battle of Vimy Ridge was fought during the First World War from 9 to 12 April 1917. It was the largest territorial advance of any Allied force to that point in the war — but it would mean little to the outcome of the conflict. More than 10,600 Canadians were killed and wounded in the assault.
What did Vimy Ridge prove?
The Canadian success at Vimy demonstrated that no position was invulnerable to a meticulously planned and conducted assault. This success had a profound effect on Allied planning.
Why is the battle of Passchendaele important to Canada?
Legacy. The Canadian victory at Passchendaele was truly impressive and added to our nation’s growing reputation as having the best offensive fighting force on the Western Front. This status meant that our forces would be at the forefront of the series of advances that eventually won the war for the Allies a year later.
Where are the trenches on the Vimy Ridge?
This hand-drawn map indicates some of the hundreds of trenches that crisscrossed Vimy Ridge. These trenches lay in the 4th Division’s sector, on the left (north) of the Canadian lines.
Is there a virtual tour of Vimy Ridge?
Through Google Streetview, Canadians can take a virtual tour of the trenches at Vimy Ridge. (Google) This memorial honours the Newfoundland Regiment, which was almost entirely wiped out on the very first day of the Battle of the Somme. (Google)
Is the Battle of Vimy Ridge on Google Maps?
Vimy Ridge is not the only Canadian memorial overseas that can be explored in Google Maps. Several key locations related to the Battle of the Somme, one of the most brutal battles for Canadian soldiers during the war, are on Google Streetview.
Where are the WW1 trenches in Canada?
The preserved trenches are located in the Canadian National Vimy Memorial Park. This is located near the village of Vimy about 5 miles (8 kilometres) north-east of Arras on the N17 to Lens. The memorial park is signposted just south of the village of Vimy.