The immense Tirpitz concrete block, near Blåvand, was constructed in late 1944 to protect the sea route to Esbjerg harbour. The war’s end meant that it was never fully completed, yet it remains a vivid reminder of a darker past. Next week, a contemporary exhibition complex will open, revealing the little-known stories of this remote corner of Denmark.

The elegant new museum, joined to the bunker by a tunnel, was designed by architects Bjarke Ingels. It is the antithesis of its hefty, imposing neighbour. A series of incisions appear in the sand dunes, leading to a hidden, airy square from which the exhibition spaces radiate. ... Inside, the three new permanent exhibition spaces have been conceptualised by Dutch designers Tinker Imagineers. The result is an intriguing experience. It is, says Tinker director Erik Bär, “a scenographic journey through the time and space of West Jutland. The idea is that the whole place comes to life following the rhythms of nature.”