Colonne de la Grande Armée

Standing on the heights of Wimille, a stone's throw from Boulogne-sur-Mer, the Column of the Grande Armée is the tallest war memorial in the region and a powerful symbol of imperial ambition. Erected to celebrate the awarding of the Legion of Honour at the Boulogne Camp in 1804, this 53-meter-high marble column is crowned by a statue of Napoleon I with his back to England. Much more than a simple structure, it marks the spot where the Emperor assembled his "Grande Armée" to prepare for the invasion of Great Britain, before marching towards the plains of Austerlitz. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into the military and political history of France. At the foot of the column, a museum houses the original bronze statue of Napoleon, as well as artifacts retracing the tumultuous construction of the monument, which was only completed under Louis-Philippe. But the real draw for the modern visitor is the climb up the 263 steps to the upper gallery. From up there, the view is breathtaking: a stunning panorama encompasses the cliffs of Cap Gris-Nez and Blanc-Nez and, on a clear day, the English coast which seems almost within reach.