Bastogne Barracks - a fascinating WW2 interpretation centre

The former US headquarters set up by legendary General McAuliffe in December 1944 is now a WW2 interpretation centre.

A fascinating page of history

The US troops did their best to defend Bastogne, quite a strategic city on the West front. On December 19, 1944, General McAuliffe (Commander of the 101st Airborne at the time) and his division set up their headquarters in the Heintz (now named Bastogne) Barracks. His answer to the Germans' letter asking him to surrender made him quite famous. His indignation was summed up in just one word: nuts!

From former headquarters to museum

The Bastogne Barracks reopened to the public in 2010 as a WW2 interpretation centre. This museum space, which recreates the surreal atmosphere of the Battle of the Bulge through exhibitions and reconstitutions also features the basement where the US troops and famous General McAuliffe, had their headquarters.

An extraordinary collection of military vehicles

The barracks also are home to all sorts of military vehicles, part of the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and of Military History's collections. The Vehicle Restoration Center keeps the historical tanks (Tiger, Sherman, mini tanks...) and trucks in perfect condition.

Visitors with specific needs

Please click here to see the list of facilities and activities accessible to visitors with reduced mobility. Wallonia has developed the Access-i program to give travellers a clear understanding of what the infrastructures offer.

Please note, on this site:

• If you are blind or visually impaired: it is possible to touch some of the historical objects
• If you are deaf or hard of hearing: digital tablets present the history linked to each scene in sign language. The videos can be downloaded online before the visit.
• Free guided (and adapted) tours for all visitors with special needs.