HITLER'S WOLFSSCHANZE

HITLER'S WOLFSSCHANZE
By John Grehan.


Most famously remembered for being the location of Von Stauffenberg's attempt to assassinate Hitler with the bomb under the table, this illustrated guide provides a great deal of information into the development, history and what still remains of Hitler's 'Wolf's Lair'.

Located in the Gorlitz Forest in Poland, this huge complex of buildings and bunkers is now a popular tourist destination. 
During the second world war the area was highly guarded with the added security of a battalion of the Fallschirmjäger Parachute Division located nearby should there complex be attacked.
Despite Hitler's concerns, his enemies never knew it existed until the Red Army overran the area in 1945.

Once built, Hitler first visited in June 1941 and it was here that the Eastern Front Headquarters was first sited.
The book explains how it was built, what was sited here and includes many photos of Hitler and various visitors and senior Commanding Officers who either visited or worked at this HQ.
Many couldn't wait to leave as it was and still is, a haven for mosquitoes. 
Included is an excellent chapter explaining Operation Valkyrie, the bomb plot against Hitler, and the aftermath as the hunt for those involved began.

Other sites that were built close-by are also mentioned, again with excellent photographs. These include two long concrete bunkers that would house both Hitler's and his staff's trains from being visible in the air.
In the manner of the fabulous 'After The Battle' (Then and Now) series, throughout the book there are colour photographs of what the buildings look like today and it is remarkable how many still survive and access that is available. 

I have found this to be both a fascinating and educating read and a book that I shall certainly be delighted to add to my shelves. A real gem.

The hardback edition is available now and published by Frontline Books, an imprint of Pen and Sword Books. 
I thank P&S for this review copy. 

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