Gerbéviller


Gerbéviller is a commune in the Meurthe-et-Moselle department in north-eastern France. It is 33 km south east of Nancy and 73 km south-south-east of Metz. Culturally and historically, it is part of Lorraine.

Geography

The village lies on the banks of the river Mortagne, which flows northwestward through the commune.
The Château de Gerbéviller and its park lie to the west of the village. Both are designated historical monuments.

History

Around August 24, 1914, the village was occupied by German troops in World War I. In retaliation for the stubborn defense of the city by the French :fr:2e bataillon de chasseurs à pied|2e Bataillon de Chasseurs à Pied, and for the actions of French civilians who took up arms to assist in the defense, the German occupiers systematically burned and pillaged about 80% of the city and massacred its population.
The village is known for the action of Amélie Rigard. As Sister Julie, she kept running the hospice in Gerbéviller during the occupation. She was awarded the Legion of Honour in 1930.