La Hougue Bie Museum – Ancient Passage Tomb and Heritage Site of Jersey
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Ambience & Setting
Set in the parish of Grouville, La Hougue Bie is one of Europe’s best-preserved Neolithic passage graves, dating back over 6,000 years. The site combines archaeology, spirituality, and history, offering a unique journey through time. The museum and grounds create a reflective atmosphere, blending prehistoric mystery with medieval and modern heritage.
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Highlights
• Neolithic Passage Grave – A massive earth mound covering a stone-built burial chamber, one of the oldest structures in the Channel Islands.
• Medieval Chapels – Two small chapels, built on top of the mound in the 12th and 16th centuries, symbolise the site’s long spiritual significance.
• Archaeological Museum – Displays artefacts from Jersey’s ancient past, including tools, pottery, and burial objects.
• German WWII Bunker – A reminder of the island’s occupation, with exhibits on forced labour and war history.
• Peace Garden – A landscaped area for quiet reflection, dedicated to those who suffered under occupation.
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Practical Info
• Location: Grouville, Jersey, Channel Islands.
• Facilities: Museum galleries, interpretation panels, shop, café, garden, parking.
• Opening Hours: Seasonal; generally spring to autumn.
• Admission: Ticketed entry; free for Jersey Heritage members.
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Why It’s Worth Visiting
La Hougue Bie is a rare meeting of prehistoric, medieval, and modern history. From the ancient passage grave to the medieval chapels and WWII bunker, the site tells the story of human resilience and spirituality over thousands of years.
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Final Thoughts
Visiting La Hougue Bie Museum is a journey across 6,000 years of history. It remains one of Jersey’s most evocative landmarks, where archaeology, heritage, and memory are woven together in one unforgettable site.