The Grand Site de la Dune du Pilat has been collaborating for more than 10 years with the GRAMASA (Archaeological research group on the Atlantic Wall, Arcachon sector) in order to promote the historical, archaeological and biological research work carried out on the works of the Atlantic Wall.
A significant part of these fortifications was built on the Grande Dune du Pilat (La Grave, les Anguillons) whose Gaillouneys battery, located south of the DuneThe latter is one of the most important bunker complexes in the territory and constitutes the Europe's most remarkable and spectacular diving site, since it now forms reefs supporting flamboyant biodiversity.
Created in 2002, the Gramasa association brings together archaeologists, divers, enthusiasts and volunteers around a common objective: to understand and raise awareness of the remains of the Atlantic Wall submerged off the coast. Sunken blockhouses, bunkers displaced by the movements of sand and swell, visible or invisible traces... These witnesses of the Second World War today form a unique chapter in maritime history and constitute, paradoxically, true refuges of biodiversity.
A spotlight by France 3 Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Gramasa's work was recently highlighted in the report by France 3 New Aquitaine , titled “Diving into the heart of the sunken blockhouses of the Atlantic Wall, which, 80 years after the war, have become refuges of biodiversity” .
The book “The Sunken Blockhouses of Gaillouneys” is available at the Dune reception area
The fruit of several years of investigations and scientific dives, the work “The sunken blockhouses of Gaillouneys” synthesizes this research and offers an in-depth discovery of this unique heritage, between memory and environment.
This book is available for sale in one of the cultural shops at the Dune du Pilat site, to extend the visit and deepen your knowledge of this exceptional heritage.
Gramasa provides the Joint Syndicate with its expertise and tools: scientific materials, specialist works, maps and documentation, etc.
Team training and joint actions
Gramasa members also ensure the training of mediators of the Grand Site , providing them with the latest archaeological, ecological and historical knowledge about the blockhouses and the coastline. Thanks to this collaboration, visitors and locals will be able to discover the fascinating history and unsuspected wealth of these sites.
This partnership will be enhanced by new activities (thematic visits, audiovisual promotion of research, films, exhibitions, etc.). Follow our news!
