Our aim is to make available to the public, visiting historic societies and academics examples of the most important fortifications built in Guernsey by the German occupying forces between 1940-45.
Festung Guernsey was formed in 2005 and consists of a group of volunteers committed to the restoration and preservation of World War II bunkers in Guernsey. Our mission is to ensure that these historical landmarks, which stand as powerful reminders of the island’s wartime past, are maintained for future generations. Through our dedicated efforts, we aim to honour the sacrifices made by those who lived through the occupation and to provide educational opportunities for all who wish to learn about this pivotal period in our history.
Our dedicated team of volunteers brings together individuals from all walks of life, united by a shared interest in history, preservation, and community involvement. The bunkers we restore were once integral to the islands defence strategy and are now part of its cultural heritage. By meticulously restoring these structures, we aim to capture the atmosphere of the era and provide visitors with an immersive experience that transports them back in time.
Each bunker we work on has its own unique story to tell. From the massive gun emplacements of Batterie Mirus to command posts, each structure played a critical role during World War II. Our restoration process involves extensive research, careful planning, and a deep respect for the historical significance of these sites.
We’re always looking for volunteers to assist with the restoration and maintenance of various WWll fortifications around the island. This often includes gardening, painting, small building projects and general maintenance to ensure the upkeep of the sites.
Anyone over the age of 16 with an interest in fortifications is welcome to join. We meet on Tuesday evenings from 7pm – 9pm and Saturday mornings from 9am – 1pm at one of our many sites.
Volunteering is very flexible, members can choose whether to assist on a Tuesday night or Saturday morning, or both.
For more information please contact us.