The artificial harbour

Located on the Arromanches clifftops, the Arromanches 360 Circular cinema dominates the remnants of one of the two artificial Mulberry harbours set up by the Allies.
© US Army / Le Mémorial de Caen

On 8th June 1944, two days after the liberation of Arromanches, the first Phoenix blockships were sunk. They formed a dike that sheltered the ships from the swell when they unloaded their cargoes.

© US Army / Le Mémorial de Caen

Some “whale” floating roadways and some platforms following the movements of the tide completed the deployment.

© Le Mémorial de Caen

On 14th June, some ships started to unload their cargo. In 100 days, “Port Winston” permitted to land 400 000 soldiers, 4 million tons of equipment and 500 000 vehicles. It remained active until 1st December 1944.

© US Army / Le Mémorial de Caen

A few dozen “Phoenix” blockships are still visible today and continue to keep the waters of Arromanches smooth.

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Arromanches 360