Located in the heart of Place Denfert‑Rochereau, opposite the Catacombs, the Museum of the Liberation of Paris – General Leclerc & Jean Moulin Museum presents an immersive chronological journey through the Second World War, anchored around two iconic figures of the Resistance.
Officially opened on 25 August 2019 to mark the 75th anniversary of the Liberation, the museum occupies two neoclassical pavilions designed by Claude‑Nicolas Ledoux in 1787, fully restored to showcase enhanced collections and contemporary exhibition spaces.
The permanent exhibition follows a chronological narrative: inter-war years, the 1940 collapse, Occupation, internal and Free French Resistance, African campaign, Normandy landings, and finally the Liberation of Paris. It features more than 300 original artifacts, 7,000 documents, photographs, uniforms, weapons, archival videos, and eyewitness recordings that deliver a powerful and immersive historical account.
A highlight is the Colonel Henri Rol‑Tanguy command post, located 20 meters underground – a former air raid shelter turned strategic hub. Visitors can explore it through a free or guided visit, enhanced by a mixed–reality experience (Hololens) and immersive soundscape.
The atmosphere blends architectural austerity with modern exhibit design: minimalist display cases, spacious layouts, digital terminals, multilingual content, and accessible interpretation tools for all audiences (families, schools, researchers). Guided tours, family tours, serious games, and audio-guide options are available.
Temporary exhibitions (e.g., "Daniel Cordier, amateur art spy", 2025) and public lectures also take place, with fees ranging between €7–13 depending on format.
Important practical details: open Tuesday to Sunday 10 am–6 pm (closed Mondays and certain holidays), free entry to permanent collections, wheelchair accessible (except bunker), cloakroom, lockers, and Vigipirate security measures.
Audience: history enthusiasts, families, students, researchers, and international visitors. The museum tailors experiences with serious games for families, thematic visits, and a thorough, immersive recount of the Resistance.
Anecdote: relocating the museum to Place Denfert‑Rochereau strengthened the historical link between General Leclerc’s 2nd Armored Division, which entered Paris via that route, and Colonel Rol‑Tanguy’s FFI headquarters – creating a poignant memory dialogue.
Additional info: accessible via Metro lines 4 and 6, RER B, bus 38/68/88/216/Orlybus, Vélib station; cloakroom, restrooms, induction loops; strict historical and archival conservation.
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