117th Infantry Regiment assembled at Caserne Chanzy, Le Mans on 26 July 1914

117E Régiment D'Infanterie

117e Régiment d’Infanterie Le Mans: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Site Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Le Mans is not only celebrated for its medieval heritage and the world-famous 24 Hours of Le Mans race, but also as a city with deep military roots, embodied by the 117e Régiment d’Infanterie (117e RI). Founded in the wake of the Franco-Prussian War, the regiment’s history is woven into the city’s fabric—from the imposing Caserne Chanzy barracks to the vibrant Parc Théodore Monod that now occupies the former military grounds. Through its architecture, commemorative landmarks, and local traditions, the legacy of the 117e RI offers visitors a profound connection to France’s military past and Le Mans’ enduring community spirit.

This comprehensive guide presents the history of the 117e RI, practical information for visiting the historic sites, and recommendations for exploring nearby attractions. Whether you are a history enthusiast, cultural traveler, or a resident seeking to rediscover your city, engaging with the 117e RI heritage in Le Mans promises a rewarding and reflective experience. For further planning, resources like the Le Mans Tourism website, the Wikipedia article on the regiment, and the Gertrude Pays de la Loire heritage database offer valuable insights.

117th Infantry Regiment of the Line soldiers in formation at Le Mans

Le Mans 117 Infantry Regiment inspection outside barracks

Portrait of Colonel Brébant in military uniform

Uniform of a Royal French Infantry Regiment from 1734

Uniform of a Royal French Infantry Regiment from 1734 decree

Insigne régimentaire du 117e régiment d'infanterie de ligne sur fond blanc

Le Mans Caserne Chanzy military barracks of the 117th Infantry Regiment

French infantry soldiers conducting military maneuvers in Centre-Val de Loire 1908

French infantry soldiers of the 117th Regiment during military manoeuvres in September 1908

Historical Background of the 117e Régiment d’Infanterie
Visiting the 117e Régiment d’Infanterie Site: Practical Information
Nearby Historical Sites and Attractions
Caserne Chanzy: History, Monumentality, and Urban Transformation
Exploring the Heritage: Monuments, Memory, and Visitor Guide
Essential Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, Access, and Tips
Summary and Recommendations
References and Further Reading

Historical Background of the 117e Régiment d’Infanterie

Origins and Formation

The 117e Régiment d’Infanterie, tracing its roots to the Régiment de la Province du Maine, emerged from army reforms after the Franco-Prussian War in 1873. Initially part of the 4th Army Corps, the regiment was based in Paris and North Africa before establishing its permanent headquarters in Le Mans.

Establishment in Le Mans and Caserne Chanzy

By the 1880s, the regiment was stationed at Le Mans in the newly built Caserne Chanzy. Designed by General Séré de Rivières, this barracks complex not only fulfilled military needs but also spurred the city’s westward expansion, becoming a focal point for local life.

Role in the World Wars

The 117e RI distinguished itself in World War I, fighting at Charleroi, the Marne, and Champagne, and earning multiple citations and the fourragère decoration. The regiment continued its service in World War II before being reorganized and later dissolved in 1968.

Postwar Legacy

Following the closure of Caserne Chanzy in the 1990s, the site was redeveloped into Parc Théodore Monod. Today, the park stands as a living memorial to the regiment, integrating historical elements with public green space.

Visiting the 117e Régiment d’Infanterie Site: Practical Information

Location and Access

Address: Parc Théodore Monod / Place du 117e Régiment d’Infanterie, Saint-Pavin-des-Champs, Le Mans, France
Public Transport: Accessible via tram (Line T1 to Antarès – Stade Marie Marvingt), bus (Line 5, “Oasis – Centre des Expositions” stop), and taxi. See 24h Le Mans access guide for details.
By Car: Close to A11 and A28 motorways with nearby parking (spaces may be limited during large events).

Visiting Hours and Admission

Parc Théodore Monod: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM (subject to seasonal variation).
Admission: Free access to the park and commemorative areas—no ticket required.

Accessibility

Wheelchair-accessible paved paths and ramps throughout the park and Place du 117e Régiment d’Infanterie.
Public transportation is equipped for reduced mobility.

Facilities

Restrooms, playgrounds, picnic areas, and the Le Terminus 117 café nearby (CitooFrance).

Guided Tours and Events

No regularly scheduled guided tours, but Le Mans Tourism and local historical societies occasionally host themed walks or events. Contact the Le Mans Tourist Office for updates.

Nearby Historical Sites and Attractions

Le Mans Old Town (Cité Plantagenêt): Discover medieval streets, Saint-Julien Cathedral, and Roman walls.
Musée de la Reine Bérengère: Explore local history and culture.
24 Hours of Le Mans Museum: Essential for motorsport fans.
Dining and Accommodation: A range of restaurants, cafés, and hotels are available in the city center and Saint-Pavin-des-Champs district.

Caserne Chanzy: History, Monumentality, and Urban Transformation

Historical Context and Construction

Caserne Chanzy was constructed between 1875 and 1878 as part of France’s military modernization after the Franco-Prussian War (guerre1870.hypotheses.org). Le Mans, a strategic railway hub, was chosen for its logistical importance.

Architectural Significance

The barracks exemplify late 19th-century military architecture: monumental facades, symmetrical layouts, and robust masonry were designed to signify state power and security. The main entrance pavilion remains a striking vestige of this era, now adorned with plaques honoring the 117e RI and the 2e Régiment d’Infanterie Marine (lavoirs-en-sarthe.fr).

Urban Integration and Redevelopment

Caserne Chanzy’s construction spurred new neighborhoods, integrating the military presence into city life. In the late 20th century, the site was redeveloped: 3.4 hectares became Parc Théodore Monod and residential units, while other portions remain in use by the Gendarmerie (lemoniteur.fr). The park blends preserved military architecture with landscaped gardens and modern amenities (lemans-tourisme.com).

Commemorative and Cultural Layers

Plaques and monuments throughout the site honor the 117e RI’s service, France’s colonial campaigns, and local soldiers lost in 20th-century wars, making it a place of remembrance as well as recreation.

Exploring the Heritage: Monuments, Memory, and Visitor Guide

Monuments and Place Names

Place du 117e Régiment d’Infanterie: This central square anchors the regiment’s memory in Le Mans’ urban landscape (Near Place).
Le Terminus 117 Café: A local establishment reflecting military heritage in everyday life (CitooFrance).

Ceremonies and Education

Annual Armistice Day commemorations and local school visits to memorials ensure ongoing remembrance.
Regimental histories and personal testimonies, such as those of Eugène Le Noan, enrich local education and museum exhibits (CRID 14-18; tableaudhonneur.free.fr).

Digital Resources

Extensive regimental archives, honors, and testimonies are available online (Tableau d’Honneur).

Essential Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, Access, and Tips

Hours: Parc Théodore Monod and the Caserne Chanzy site are open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Admission: Free.
Accessibility: Paved, wheelchair-friendly paths.
Photography: Allowed for personal use; professional shoots require municipal permission (Gertrude Pays de la Loire).
Guided Tours: Occasional, check with Le Mans Tourist Office.
Transport: Tram Line T1, Bus Line 5, and nearby parking. For detailed access, see 24h Le Mans.
Amenities: Café, playgrounds, restrooms, and picnic areas on-site.

Summary and Recommendations

The heritage of the 117e Régiment d’Infanterie in Le Mans is preserved through the adaptive reuse of Caserne Chanzy, the tranquility of Parc Théodore Monod, and a network of monuments and annual commemorations. Visitors can access the park and memorials freely, enjoy the city’s medieval and motorsport attractions, and benefit from a range of modern amenities. To maximize your experience, check local resources for event schedules, take advantage of public transport, and consider downloading the Audiala app for curated tours and updates.

A visit to these historic grounds is both a step back in time and a celebration of Le Mans’ evolving identity—a testament to courage, community, and continuity.