In the quiet countryside of Normandy, nestled between the rolling valleys and lush forests near Mortain, rises a seemingly unremarkable prominence—Hill 314. At first glance, it’s just another elevation among many in the region. But for those who pause to dig a little deeper, Hill 314 holds within its slopes a story of unimaginable courage, sacrifice, and resilience. It is not just a hill. It is a symbol.
A Strategic Stronghold in the Battle of Mortain
The story of Hill 314 is rooted in one of the most dramatic confrontations of World War II: the Battle of Mortain, which took place in early August 1944. After the Allied breakout from Normandy at Saint-Lô (Operation Cobra), German forces launched a desperate counter-offensive—Operation Lüttich—with the aim of recapturing the town of Avranches and cutting off the Allied advance.
Hill 314, which dominates the town of Mortain and offers clear lines of sight across the surrounding terrain, became the focal point of fierce fighting. On August 6th, soldiers from the 30th Infantry Division of the U.S. Army—specifically, a battalion of the 2nd Battalion, 120th Infantry Regiment—took positions on the hill, unaware that they would be completely encircled by a massive German offensive.
Six Days of Defiance
For six harrowing days, from August 7 to August 13, 1944, approximately 700 American soldiers held Hill 314 against overwhelming odds. Cut off from reinforcements and supplies, surrounded on all sides by
German Panzer divisions, they faced artillery bombardments, infantry assaults, and the threat of annihilation.
Despite intense suffering—limited ammunition, no medical evacuation, scarce food and water—the defenders held firm. The battle was brutal. Many were wounded or killed. Yet they refused to surrender. Their resistance was not just an act of survival; it was an act of defiance that helped delay the German offensive long enough for Allied forces to regroup and counterattack.
The stand on Hill 314 proved pivotal. Not only did it stall the German advance, but it also allowed the Allies to encircle and destroy large portions of the German army in what would become the Falaise Pocket—a turning point in the liberation of France.
A Place of Remembrance and Honor
Today, Hill 314 remains a peaceful place, surrounded by the natural beauty of Normandy. But as you walk its slopes, you cannot help but feel the weight of history beneath your feet. At the summit, you’ll find a memorial to the fallen, honoring the bravery of those who fought and died here.
The view from the top is stunning. On a clear day, it stretches over the valleys and fields that once echoed with gunfire. Now silent, this panoramic landscape reminds us not only of the horrors of war but also of the power of human determination and the cost of freedom.
Visiting Hill 314
For those traveling through Normandy, a visit to Hill 314 is a profound experience. Located just outside Mortain, it is easily accessible by car and well-signposted. The site includes:
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A memorial stone and plaque detailing the events of August 1944.
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Interpretive panels with maps and photos that bring the story to life.
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Walking trails that let you explore the landscape once defended so fiercely.
Visitors are encouraged to take a moment of silence at the top—to reflect, to remember, and to honor the sacrifices made here.
A Legacy That Lives On
The courage displayed on Hill 314 is a testament to the spirit of the men who fought for liberty in the darkest days of the 20th century. Their stand may have taken place over 80 years ago, but its legacy continues to inspire generations.
Hill 314 is more than a battlefield. It is a place of hope, a symbol of what can be achieved through unity, resilience, and faith in a better future. As you stand at its summit, breathing the fresh Normandy air and taking in the same views those soldiers once saw, you’ll understand why this modest hill is remembered as one of the most heroic sites of World War II.
Extend the Experience: Museum Victory at Mortain
To deepen your understanding of the Battle of Mortain and the pivotal role of Hill 314, a visit to the Musée Victory at Mortain is highly recommended. Located in Le Neufbourg, near Mortain, this museum offers an immersive journey into the region’s World War II history.
Exhibits and Features:
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Authentic Artifacts and Dioramas: The museum showcases a vast collection of genuine wartime objects and over twenty meticulously reconstructed scenes based on period photographs. These exhibits vividly depict significant events, including the German occupation, daily life of villagers, local resistance efforts, and the German counter-attack known as Operation Lüttich.
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Life-Size Mannequins: Approximately 70 mannequins are arranged to narrate stories of occupation, village life, resistance movements, and the critical counter-offensive that led to the encirclement of German forces in the Falaise Pocket.
Visiting Information:
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Address: 32 Avenue de la Gare, 50140 Le Neufbourg, France
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Opening Hours:
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From April 1 to October 1, 2025: Open daily.
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From October 1 to October 31, 2025: Open on weekends and public holidays; daily during school holidays from 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM.
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Admission Fees:
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Adults: €8
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Children: €6
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Group rates are available.
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For the most current information on hours and special events, it’s advisable to contact the museum directly or visit their official website.
Combining a tour of Hill 314 with a visit to the Musée Victory at Mortain offers a comprehensive and poignant insight into the bravery and sacrifices that shaped the course of history in this region.
Here are some informative weblinks about Hill 314 Mortain:
Official Museum Website – Le musée Victory at Mortain
🔗 https://www.victoryatmortain.fr
Normandy Tourism – Mortain & Hill 314
🔗 https://en.normandie-tourisme.fr (General info on WWII sites)
