Which areas of Europe were "off-limits" to bombing during WWII?

Question

I know during world war 2 there was basically a gentleman's agreement that the allies wouldn't bomb areas of Rome because of it's historical significance. What were some other areas like this, and is there anywhere I can find out more information about this unwritten agreement?

Answer 1

Places like these are declared "Open Cities". This means that both warring sides have agreed to spare the city from destruction because of its historic and cultural significance.

When an open city is about to be captured, the occupying force is supposed to leave to avoid the ever-devistating street fighting. Rome was abandoned by the Germans when the Allies were assured of capturing the city.

Answer 2

Dresden was initially avoided, due to it's beautiful architecture, however, As a result of damage to many historic English cities like Coventry, Air vice marshal Arthur "Bomber" Harris ordered a retaliatory attack on Dresden, resulting in the infamous "Firestorm" and destruction of the city (Dresden, unlike Coventry was of limited tactical importance).
Prague too, seems to have got off fairly lightly in terms of damage. However, this was the birth of "total war", so little was sacred when it came to the fighting.
Switzerland, believe it or not, was bombed by the allies. The USAF accidentally bombed Northern border towns on several occasions. The Swiss even managed to shoot down several bombers (the USAF claimed the aircraft were examples captured by the Germans & used for disinformation!) and capture aircrew.

Answer 3

Switzerland.

Answer 4

Paris was an open city, however, Hitler did give orders to destroy prior to liberation. The German commander, however, did not carryout the order, except in portions of the suburbs....

Answer 5

- Southern part of France (agreement between Hitler and Pétain)
- Switzerland
- Portugal and Spain I think

Answer 6

Duh!

Areas occupied by Allied troops.







g-day!

Answer 7

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Open_city