The Dome of Helfaut
Originally, this site nestled between the lchalk hills was a quarry, exploited for many years to provide chalk, an essential material in construction and local industry.
Helfaut
Variable hours, check before the visit.
Adult €13, Child (4-17) €9.50, Family €38 (2+2) +€5 per additional child
Accessible by public transport
Facilities
- Café
- Visitor information available
- Cycle parking
- Disabled parking
- Accessible footpaths
- Car parking
- Toilets
Geosite details
Originally, this site nestled between the limestone hillsides was a chalk quarry, mined for many years to provide chalk, an essential material in construction and local industry. However, during World War II, the quarry was closed and turned by the Germans into a secret base for the launch of V2 missiles.
These missiles, a major military innovation, were designed to strike distant targets. The dome, with its robust structure, was built to withstand bombing and accommodate these strategic operations. Fortunately, its use was short-lived due to Allied bombing.
Today, the Musée de la Coupole d’Helfaut offers exhibitions on the V2 missiles and the history of the chalk quarry, allowing visitors to discover the evolution of this site through time. This place of remembrance highlights both the impact of the war and the geological importance of the region.
