Musée de la Résistance et de la Déportation de Besançon
Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
The Musée de la Résistance et de la Déportation de Besançon is a museum dedicated to preserving and presenting the history of the French Resistance and the deportation during World War II. Situated within the historic Citadelle of Besançon, it serves as a profound cultural and educational site in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region. The museum offers a comprehensive permanent exhibition divided into nine themes across ten rooms, exploring the various aspects of resistance and the tragic deportations under Nazi occupation. Founded in 1971 largely through the efforts of Denise Lorach, a survivor of deportation herself, the museum aims to connect historical knowledge with contemporary society. After a complete renovation lasting nearly three years, it reopened in September 2023 with updated exhibits and enhanced facilities. The collections are rich and serve as valuable resources for historical research and remembrance. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and conferences, contributing to ongoing education about WWII and its impact on the region and France as a whole.
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Tip: The museum is best visited during weekdays to avoid crowds, especially after its recent reopening in September 2023. Booking tickets in advance is recommended for special exhibitions and conferences, which sometimes require reservations. Visitors can benefit from reduced rates for certain groups. Check the official website for the latest schedules, temporary exhibitions, and events to enrich your visit.
Interesting facts
- •Denise Lorach, the museum's founder, was deported to Bergen-Belsen concentration camp with her young son during WWII and survived.
- •The museum is located inside the Citadelle of Besançon, a UNESCO World Heritage site designed by Vauban in the 17th century.
- •The museum's renovation from 2020 to 2023 had a budget exceeding 5 million euros, funded by multiple public entities.
- •The permanent exhibition is organized into nine thematic sections across ten rooms, offering a detailed exploration of resistance and deportation history.
- •The museum frequently hosts conferences and temporary exhibitions, such as the 2026 series on the persecution of nomadic populations during WWII.
History
The museum was founded in 1971 following an initiative by Denise Lorach, a deportation survivor who advocated for a dedicated space to remember the victims of Nazi deportation and honor the French Resistance.
The initial idea emerged from a 1964 exhibition commemorating the liberation of France.
Over the decades, the museum has grown in significance and underwent a major renovation from 2020 to 2023 to modernize its exhibitions and facilities.
Throughout its history, it has been supported by local authorities and various cultural institutions, reflecting its importance as a memorial and educational center in Besançon.
Place Guide
Permanent Exhibition
The core of the museum, this exhibition is divided into nine thematic sections spread over ten rooms. It covers the history of the French Resistance, the deportation of Jews and other persecuted groups, and the broader context of WWII in the region.
Citadelle of Besançon17th century
The historic fortress housing the museum, designed by Vauban in the 17th century. The Citadelle itself is a major heritage site and offers panoramic views of Besançon.
Contact
Phone: 03 81 87 83 33
