Old Military Map of Normandy Beaches, 1943: D-Day Planning, Vierville to Houlgate, Arromanches
Immerse yourself in a pivotal moment of history with the “Beaches of Normandy – Vierville to Houlgate” map, an exquisite piece crafted by the United States Office of Strategic Services in 1943. This topographic masterpiece captures the intricate details of the Normandy coastline, a region that played a crucial role during World War II. The map meticulously outlines the coastal geography, showcasing offshore features, tide currents, and the composition of sea floor sediments. Its precision and detail offer a glimpse into the strategic planning that preceded the iconic D-Day landings, making it a valuable artifact for history enthusiasts and collectors alike.
The map’s historical significance is underscored by its creation during a time of global conflict. The OSS, a precursor to the CIA, produced this map as part of their wartime intelligence efforts. Its detailed representation of the Normandy coast provided essential information for military strategists, aiding in the successful execution of Operation Overlord. This map not only highlights the geographical features of the region but also serves as a testament to the meticulous planning and coordination that were vital to the Allied victory in Europe.
Featuring key locations such as Vierville, Port-en-Bessin, and Arromanches, the map transports you to the heart of the Normandy landings. These beaches, etched in history as the sites of immense bravery and sacrifice, are depicted with precision, illustrating the challenges faced by the Allied forces. The map also includes detailed information on transportation routes, coastal defenses, and potential landing sites, offering a comprehensive view of the strategic landscape during one of history’s most significant military operations.
Beyond its military context, the map provides a fascinating insight into the natural features of the Normandy coastline. Contour lines reveal the region’s relief, while isolines and soundings depict the depths of the surrounding waters. Coastal features such as sea walls and jetties are meticulously detailed, reflecting the complex interplay between natural and man-made elements. This blend of artistry and scientific accuracy makes the map a captivating piece for those interested in cartography and historical geography.
As a luxury collector’s item, this map not only serves as a window into the past but also as a symbol of human resilience and ingenuity. Its historical and cultural significance, combined with its aesthetic appeal, makes it a treasured addition to any collection. Whether displayed in a study, library, or gallery, the “Beaches of Normandy – Vierville to Houlgate” map invites viewers to reflect on the profound events of World War II and the enduring impact of those who shaped the course of history.
Places on this map
- Vierville
- Port-en-Bessin
- Arromanches
- Bernières
- Ouistreham
- Houlgate
- Pointe de la Percée
- La Rivière
- Lion-sur-Mer
- Courseulles
- Bay of the Seine
- Caen
- Merville
- Luc-sur-Mer
- Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer
Notable Features & Landmarks
- Offshore features such as anchorage and wrecks
- Rocky ledges and drying areas
- Tidal currents and flood tide information
- Composition of sea floor sediments
- Coastal features like sea walls and jetties
- Contour lines indicating relief
- Transportation routes including paved and unpaved highways, footpaths, and railroads
- Narrow and standard gauge railroad tracks
- Navigation canals
Historical and design context
- Compiled and drawn in the Branch of Research and Analysis, OSS
- Published in 1943
- Created by the United States Office of Strategic Services (OSS), a wartime intelligence agency
- Topographic map with information on offshore features, tide currents, flood tide, and composition of sea floor sediments
- Relief shown by contours; depths shown by isolines and soundings
- Part of strategic planning for the Normandy landings during World War II
Please double check the images to make sure that a specific town or place is shown on this map. You can also get in touch and ask us to check the map for you.
This map looks great at every size, but I always recommend going for a larger size if you have space. That way you can easily make out all of the details.
This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 100in (250cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.
This map is wider than most maps, which would make it a perfect statement piece above a mantelpiece, sofa or desk.
The fifth listing image shows an example of my map personalisation service.
If you’re looking for something slightly different, check out my collection of the best old maps to see if something else catches your eye.
Please contact me to check if a certain location, landmark or feature is shown on this map.
This would make a wonderful birthday, Christmas, Father’s Day, work leaving, anniversary or housewarming gift for someone from the areas covered by this map.
This map is available as a giclée print on acid free archival matte paper, or you can buy it framed. The frame is a nice, simple black frame that suits most aesthetics. Please get in touch if you’d like a different frame colour or material. My frames are glazed with super-clear museum-grade acrylic (perspex/acrylite), which is significantly less reflective than glass, safer, and will always arrive in perfect condition.
