Brian De Coster
Google
Visiting the underground tunnels of Naours is like stepping into a forgotten world beneath the surface of northern France. Carved out in the Middle Ages, this remarkable network of galleries served as a refuge for local populations during times of war and unrest—but surprisingly, not during the more recent global conflicts of the 20th century.
The underground city is vast, with over 300 rooms spread across nearly 2 kilometers of tunnels. As you walk through the dimly lit passageways, it’s easy to imagine the lives of those who once sought shelter here during raids and invasions centuries ago. The ingenuity of these early engineers is impressive: the tunnels include chapels, stables, wells, and ventilation shafts—an entire hidden village carved into the chalky rock.
Despite its strategic depth and size, the site was not used as a shelter during World War I or World War II. In fact, during WWI, the site became more of a curiosity than a refuge—thousands of soldiers, particularly from Australia and other parts of the British Commonwealth, visited and left their names etched into the walls, creating an extraordinary collection of graffiti that still exists today.
The visitor experience is both educational and atmospheric. Information panels and guided tours provide context about the origins of the tunnels, how they were used, and why they eventually fell out of use as a place of refuge. The story of the soldiers’ inscriptions adds a touching, human dimension to the historical narrative.
Overall, the Naours underground city is a hidden gem that offers a unique perspective on medieval life, wartime memory, and how spaces can evolve in meaning over centuries. It’s a must-see for history lovers and curious travelers alike.
