Channel Islands | Guernsey Fort Saumarez

2023-12-212024-01-21 QUIBERON 24

Guernsey / Channel Islands. Situated on the picturesque island of Guernsey, Fort Saumarez stands as a testament to the island’s rich history and strategic importance. This coastal fortification, perched on the rugged cliffs of the island’s southern coast, has played a crucial role in the defense of Guernsey for centuries.

During World War II and the German occupation of the Channel Islands, the Germans recognized the enduring utility of the site and built a four-storey concrete observation tower on top of the existing tower. This tower, along with other batteries that surrounded the Island were constructed to form part of Hitler’s ‘Atlantic Wall’. These were in place to prevent the allies from invading the northern coast of France. Built during the mid-19th century, Fort Saumarez was constructed as part of the island’s defenses against potential naval threats. The fort takes its name from Sir Thomas Saumarez, a prominent figure in Guernsey’s military history. With its commanding position overlooking the Little Russell Channel, the fort served as a key stronghold to safeguard the island from maritime intruders.

The Martello tower was constructed on the site of an existing battery in 1804 after the onset of the Napoleonic Wars and during the tenure (1803-1813) of Lieutenant Governor General Sir John Doyle. Doyle named the tower for the Guernsey native and renowned Royal Navy Captain, Sir James Saumarez, who at the time commanded British naval forces in the Channel Islands.