Montluc Prison

Montluc Prison Memorial: A Visitor’s Guide to Lyon’s WWII History

Introduction

Montluc Prison Memorial stands as a poignant reminder of France’s turbulent 20th-century history, particularly its role during World War II. Located in Lyon’s 3rd arrondissement, this former military prison (constructed in 1921) became a symbol of oppression under the Vichy regime and the Gestapo. Today, it serves as a museum and memorial, offering a moving and educational experience for visitors. This guide provides comprehensive information for planning your visit, including historical background, visiting hours, accessibility, and nearby attractions.

Montluc Prison: A Historical Overview

Initially built for military detainees, Montluc Prison’s purpose tragically shifted with the onset of World War II. Following the 1940 Nazi invasion and subsequent Vichy control, the prison became a detention center for political prisoners and members of the French Resistance. Conditions deteriorated further in 1943 when the Gestapo assumed control, transforming Montluc into a key site for Nazi repression. Thousands, including Jean Moulin, Marc Bloch, and the Children of Izieu, were imprisoned within its walls, enduring interrogation, torture, and often deportation. The prison was liberated in August 1944. Today, the memorial preserves this history, honoring the victims and educating visitors about this dark chapter (Frank Falla Archive; Chemins de Mémoire; Lyon Visite).

Bel Hadj el Maafi at the commemoration of the French Resistance at Montluc Prison Lyon on July 6 1947

Colorful mural painting on the wall of Montluc Prison in Lyon

Old inscription on Building 1 of Montluc Prison in Lyon

Southwest angle view of Montluc Prison in Lyon

Tree memorial dedicated to Philippe Rivé, the first director of the Montluc Prison National Memorial, Lyon

Exterior view of annex buildings at Prison Montluc in Lyon 3rd district

Northeast buildings of Montluc Prison in Lyon

Cells in Montluc Prison underground caves in Lyon

Prison cell with bed and basic furniture

Stone pathway and wall of Prison Montluc in Lyon with exhibition commemorating 'Morts pour la France'

Cour de la nursery building at Montluc prison in Lyon

Northern exit courtyard of Montluc Prison nursery in Lyon

Hook for the curtain hiding executions at Montluc Prison in Lyon

Facade of Montluc Prison workshops in Lyon

Exterior facade of the main building of Montluc Prison from the courtyard with the location of the Jewish barracks

Anthropometric inscription and electric meter at Prison Montluc in Lyon 3rd arrondissement

Pavilion for the detention of officers at Montluc prison in Lyon

Plaque of Officer Detention Pavilion at Montluc Prison Lyon

Montluc Prison workshop gate in Lyon 3rd arrondissement

Black and white portraits of deportees in Lyon Montluc Prison

Rosiers Mémoire de Montluc Memorial Roses dedicated to deportees and resistance victims in Lyon

Entrance gate of Montluc prison in Lyon with memorial plaques

Unstable wall of Montluc prison on Rue Jeanne Hachette in Lyon

Memorial plaque for Montluc prison on Rue du Général Mouton-Duvernet in Lyon 3rd arrondissement

Commemorative plaque at Gare Perrache in Lyon

Administrative courtyard roof of Montluc Prison

Location of the door leading to the military tribunal at Montluc Prison

Hypothetical wall of the executed prisoners at Montluc Prison

Prison Montluc where 44 children from Izieu were interned before deportation in 1944

Portrait of Jean de Lattre de Tassigny in Montluc prison

Visiting Montluc Prison Memorial

Hours and Admission

Montluc Prison Memorial is generally open from Wednesday to Saturday, 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM, with extended hours (Tuesday to Saturday, 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM) during July and August. It is closed on Mondays, bank holidays, and around Christmas and New Year’s Day. Admission, including guided tours, is free (Instants Lyonnais).

Guided Tours

Guided tours, lasting approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, are highly recommended for a deeper understanding of the site’s history. Offered primarily in French, some guides may accommodate English, German, and Spanish speakers. Tours typically cover the ground floor communal areas, providing historical context, and the upper floor, where restored cells display photographs and biographies of former prisoners (Lyon Visite; Trippy Tour Guide). For individual visitors, tours operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Group visits require advance booking.

Accessibility

The memorial is partially accessible for visitors with reduced mobility. While the entrance and some areas have wheelchair access, certain historic sections, particularly the upper floors, may present challenges. Restrooms are available. Contact the visitor center in advance for specific accessibility needs (Chemins de Mémoire).

Visitor Etiquette

Montluc Prison Memorial is a place of remembrance. Visitors are asked to maintain a respectful demeanor, speaking quietly and refraining from disruptive behavior. Photography is generally permitted but avoid flash photography, especially during tours. Due to the sensitive subject matter, parental guidance is recommended for younger children.

Educational Programs

Beyond guided tours, the memorial offers various educational programs, including school workshops, teacher training, and temporary exhibitions, which explore specific themes related to the prison’s history and the Resistance (cheminsdememoire.gouv.fr; jguideeurope.org).

Getting There and Nearby Attractions

Montluc Prison Memorial is located at 4, rue Jeanne Hachette, 69003 Lyon. It’s easily accessible via public transport: Metro line B (Saxe-Gambetta stop) followed by a 10-minute walk, or buses C3 and C13. Limited parking is available.

Consider combining your visit with other nearby historical sites:

Museum of Resistance and Deportation: Provides a broader perspective on Lyon’s wartime experience.
Vieux Lyon (Old Town): A UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing Lyon’s rich history and architecture.
Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière: Offers panoramic city views.

FAQs

Q: How much does it cost to visit Montluc Prison Memorial? A: Admission and guided tours are free.
Q: Are tours available in English? A: Tours are primarily in French, but some guides may offer tours in English and other languages. Check availability in advance.
Q: Is the memorial fully accessible? A: Partial accessibility; contact the memorial for specific needs.
Q: Are there restrooms and cafes on-site? A: Restrooms are available, but there are no cafes within the memorial. Nearby options are available.
Q: Can I take photos? A: Photography is generally permitted, but please be respectful.

Plan Your Visit

Montluc Prison Memorial offers a powerful and moving experience, providing invaluable insight into a significant period in history. Plan your visit today and explore the resources available online, including virtual tours and educational materials (memorial-montluc.fr).