Bastogne Barracks: where McAuliffe said "NUTS!"
In a cellar of this Belgian army base, the acting commander of the 101st Airborne wrote the most famous one-word reply of the war.
Updated September 27, 2026 · By the info-lux newsroom, Bastogne
The Bastogne Barracks (Rue de La-Roche 40) were the headquarters of the 101st Airborne during the siege. In the basement, you can see the cellar where Brig. Gen. McAuliffe answered "NUTS!" to the German surrender demand on December 22, 1944. Today the site is run by Belgium's War Heritage Institute. It also shows WWII tanks and vehicles and has a restoration workshop. Check opening days and book ahead: tours are often guided.
The heart of the defense
When the 101st Airborne reached Bastogne, it set up its headquarters in the Belgian army barracks on the western edge of town (today named after Lt. Heintz). The command post moved into the cellars for protection from shelling. On December 22, 1944, the German surrender note arrived there, and McAuliffe gave his reply.
What you can see
- The "NUTS!" cellar, McAuliffe's underground command post, with period furniture and the story of that day.
- Exhibits on mechanized warfare, with American, German and other armored vehicles.
- The restoration workshops, where military vehicles are brought back to life, open to visitors on some tours and event days.
Practical tips
- The Barracks are an active heritage site of the Belgian federal government. Opening days are more limited than at the private museums. Check the official site and book, especially for groups.
- Visit the Bastogne War Museum first for context.
- The 101st Airborne Museum is 5 minutes away.
- During the Nuts Weekend in December, the Barracks hold a special open weekend with vehicle demonstrations.
Practical information
| Address | Rue de La-Roche 40, 6600 Bastogne, Belgium |
|---|---|
| Managed by | War Heritage Institute (Belgian federal institution) |
| Booking | +32 478 78 24 98 · booking.bastogne@warheritage.be |
| Website | bastognebarracks.be |
| Museum Pass | Accepted (Belgian museumPASSmusées) |
Frequently asked questions
Can you visit the "NUTS!" cellar in Bastogne?
Yes. The cellar that served as the 101st Airborne command post is part of the visit at the Bastogne Barracks, Rue de La-Roche 40.
Who runs the Bastogne Barracks?
The War Heritage Institute, a Belgian federal institution that also manages the Royal Military Museum in Brussels.
Do I need to book?
It is strongly recommended. Opening days are limited and many visits are guided. Contact booking.bastogne@warheritage.be or call +32 478 78 24 98.
Where exactly did McAuliffe say "NUTS!"?
In the underground command post of the 101st Airborne, in the cellars of the Bastogne Barracks, on December 22, 1944.
Sources: Bastogne Barracks / War Heritage Institute (official website, September 2026), Bastogne War Museum, Land of Memory. Opening hours and prices change: check the official website before your visit. Written in English by the info-lux newsroom, independent regional news media based in the Belgian province of Luxembourg.