By Ludovic Ameline
Published on Apr 14, 2026 at 7:59 PM
On Friday, April 10, 2026, around 11 a.m., two hikers made a surprising discovery near the Rouland dam in Équeurdreville-Hainneville (a town in Cherbourg-en-Cotentin, Manche). While walking along the site, they spotted a partially unearthed cylindrical object. The appearance of the object immediately raised concerns; it could be a German concrete shell from World War II, but nothing confirms this theory at the moment.
Explosives experts were notified. The local emergency service in Équeurdreville-Hainneville visited the area to secure it. A perimeter was marked around the discovery to prevent public access. Demining services were also notified and will soon evacuate the metallic device measuring 10-12 cm in diameter.
Although rare, such discoveries serve as reminders that the territory of Cherbourg still carries traces of the 1939-1945 conflict. It is crucial not to touch any suspicious object resembling an explosive device and to immediately inform the authorities, regardless of its appearance or presumed age.
Even after decades, these munitions can remain active and pose a real danger to the population. Every day, various war devices are uncovered nationwide: shells, bombs, grenades, cartridges—handling them is strongly discouraged.
Residents are urged to exercise extreme caution during their walks or activities near sites potentially affected by the war.
