Background

Centre d'Histoire de la Résistance et de la Déportation

Explore Lyon's pivotal role in the French Resistance at the Centre d'Histoire de la Résistance et de la Déportation, a museum dedicated to preserving the memory of WWII.

4.5

The Centre d'Histoire de la Résistance et de la Déportation (CHRD) in Lyon stands as a poignant reminder of France's wartime experiences. Located in the former headquarters of the Gestapo, where Klaus Barbie once presided, the museum offers a powerful and symbolic journey through the events of World War II, particularly as they unfolded in Lyon. Through meticulously curated exhibits featuring original documents, photographs, and artifacts, visitors gain insight into the lives of those who resisted the Nazi occupation and the tragic fate of those who were deported. The CHRD serves not only as a historical archive but also as a space for reflection on the values of resistance, human rights, and the importance of remembrance. It's a moving and essential visit for anyone seeking to understand this dark chapter in history and its enduring impact.

A brief summary to Centre d'histoire de la résistance et de la déportation

  • Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum's permanent and temporary exhibitions.
  • Consider taking a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the historical context and the stories behind the artifacts.
  • Check the museum's website for information on temporary exhibitions, events, and workshops.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Centre d'Histoire de la Résistance et de la Déportation is easily accessible by public transport. From Gare Part-Dieu, take Metro line B to Jean Macé station. From there, it's a short 2-minute walk to the museum. Several bus lines also stop near Jean Macé station, including lines C4, C12, 34 and 35. A single ticket for the Lyon public transport system costs €2. Alternatively, a day pass is available for €6.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available throughout Lyon. A taxi ride from the city center (e.g., Place Bellecour) to the CHRD will typically cost between €10 and €15, depending on traffic conditions.

  • Driving

    If driving, be aware that parking in the immediate vicinity of the museum can be limited. The Berthelot parking garage, located at 99 rue de Marseille, is a convenient option, situated directly across from the CHRD. Parking rates at Berthelot are €0.70 per 15 minutes, with a daily maximum of €43.40. There are also some street parking options in the area, but these are often metered and can be difficult to find. Street parking fees vary, but typically cost around €2.00 for one hour.

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Discover more about Centre d'histoire de la résistance et de la déportation

The Centre d'Histoire de la Résistance et de la Déportation (CHRD) is more than just a museum; it's a deeply moving experience that transports visitors back to the tumultuous years of World War II in Lyon. Housed in the former École de Santé Militaire, a building requisitioned by the Gestapo and once the headquarters of Klaus Barbie, the infamous "Butcher of Lyon," the CHRD stands as a powerful symbol of resistance and remembrance. The museum's permanent exhibition, "Lyon in the War, 1939-1945," meticulously chronicles the key events of the period, focusing on the unique circumstances of Lyon under occupation. As a hub of the French Resistance, Lyon played a crucial role in the fight against Nazi oppression. The exhibition explores the daily lives of ordinary citizens, the challenges they faced, and the courageous acts of resistance they undertook. Visitors will encounter stories of bravery, sacrifice, and resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity. The CHRD's collection is a treasure trove of historical artifacts, including original documents, photographs, posters, and personal belongings of resistance fighters and deportees. These objects offer a tangible connection to the past, allowing visitors to grasp the realities of life under occupation and the horrors of the Holocaust. Audiovisual testimonies from survivors and witnesses add another layer of depth and emotion to the experience, ensuring that their stories are never forgotten. The museum's exhibits delve into various aspects of the Resistance, from the clandestine networks that smuggled people and information to the armed struggle against the occupying forces. Visitors will learn about the key figures of the Resistance, including Jean Moulin, who unified the various resistance groups under Charles de Gaulle's leadership. The exhibition also examines the role of women in the Resistance, often overlooked in traditional historical narratives. Equally important is the CHRD's exploration of the deportation of Jews and other persecuted groups from Lyon. The museum sheds light on the anti-Semitic policies of the Vichy regime and the Nazi occupiers, the roundups and arrests of innocent people, and the horrific conditions of the concentration camps. Through personal stories and historical documents, the CHRD ensures that the memory of the victims is honored and that the lessons of the Holocaust are never forgotten. The CHRD also hosts temporary exhibitions that explore different aspects of the Resistance, human rights, and social justice. These exhibitions provide a fresh perspective on historical events and encourage visitors to reflect on contemporary issues. The building itself is an integral part of the CHRD's story. The cellars, where the Gestapo held and tortured its victims, now house temporary exhibitions, creating a chilling reminder of the building's dark past. The museum's location in the former Gestapo headquarters serves as a constant reminder of the importance of vigilance and the need to defend human rights. Visiting the CHRD is an emotional and thought-provoking experience. It's a place to learn about the past, to honor the victims of oppression, and to reflect on the values of resistance, freedom, and human dignity. The CHRD is an essential destination for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of World War II and its enduring legacy.

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