National Museum of Military History
Diekirch
The National Museum of Military History (MNHM) in Diekirch, Luxembourg, offers a comprehensive and balanced portrayal of military operations in the Ardennes region, focusing notably on the Battle of the Bulge during World War II. Housed in the historic Diekirch old brewery complex near the town center, the museum features over 3,000 square meters of exhibition space. Visitors can explore extensive collections of military vehicles, weaponry, uniforms, and personal belongings of soldiers, alongside a photographic archive and numerous lifesize dioramas that vividly depict wartime scenes. A highlight is the detailed mock-up of the night-time Sauer river crossing by the US 5th Infantry Division on January 18, 1945. Beyond World War II, the museum covers the military history of Luxembourg from its statehood to the present, including Luxembourgish participation in the First and Second World Wars, the Korean War, and various United Nations missions. As a founding member of the Belgian-Luxembourg Association of the Museums of the Battle of the Ardennes and a European partner of the National World War II Museum in New Orleans, the MNHM holds a significant position in preserving and interpreting military history in Europe.
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Tip: Plan your visit to the National Museum of Military History during weekdays for a quieter experience. Advance ticket purchase is recommended during peak tourist seasons. The museum offers discounts for groups, students, and seniors. Check the official website for opening hours and special events to enhance your visit.
Interesting facts
- •The museum's World War II collection is considered one of the finest in Western Europe.
- •It features a detailed lifesize diorama of the night-time Sauer river crossing by the US 5th Infantry Division in 1945.
- •The MNHM is a founding member of the Belgian-Luxembourg Association of the Museums of the Battle of the Ardennes.
- •It is a European partner of the National World War II Museum in New Orleans, USA.
History
The museum originated from the Diekirch Historical Museum, established in 1984 primarily to commemorate the Battle of the Bulge in Luxembourg during the winter of 1944–45.
Over time, it expanded its scope to encompass the broader military history of Luxembourg, including participation in World War I, World War II, the Korean War, and United Nations missions.
The museum relocated to the Diekirch old brewery complex, enhancing its exhibition space and visitor facilities.
It has grown into a key institution for military history in Luxembourg and is actively involved in international museum partnerships.
Place Guide
Sauer River Crossing Diorama1945
A detailed lifesize mock-up depicting the night-time crossing of the Sauer river at Diekirch on January 18, 1945 by the US 5th Infantry Division, illustrating a pivotal moment in the Battle of the Bulge.
World War II Exhibits1939-1945
Extensive collections of weapons, uniforms, military equipment, vehicles, and personal belongings from World War II, providing an immersive insight into the era's military history.
Luxembourg Military History Section
Exhibits covering the history of Luxembourg's military from statehood to present, including participation in World War I, World War II, the Korean War, and United Nations missions.
Contact
Phone: 80 89 08
