Fanø in the Atlantic Wall

Fanø was an important part of the German-built "Atlantvold", which was built from northern Norway to southern France during World War II.

Denmark was occupied by Germany in April 1940 and the Germans immediately began to fortify the coasts against a possible Allied invasion. Bunkers were built along the entire west coast of Jutland, but Fanø's important strategic location at the entrance to Esbjerg Harbor meant that over 300 bunkers were built and many minefields laid out.

In addition to the 5 large cannon positions, anti-aircraft positions, floodlights, railways, barracks, earthworks and a large number of bunkers for close defense of the island were established throughout the island.

But before the Atlantic Wall was completed, the war was over and the positions were abandoned. It is estimated that there were approx. 1200 Danish construction workers and between 1.500 and 2.500 German soldiers stationed at Fanø.

Updated by: Wadden Sea Coast | info@vadehavskysten.dk