How was the valley of the Somme River as it looked before the battle?

Before the Battle of the Somme, the valley of the Somme River was characterized by rolling countryside, dotted with small villages, farmland, and lush green fields. The area was serene and picturesque, with the river winding through the landscape, surrounded by meadows and woods. However, it was also strategically significant, making it a prime target for military operations during World War I. This tranquil setting would soon be transformed into one of the war's most infamous battlefields.