The Mont Valérien crypt (92): free visits to the memorial to fighting France

Located on the summit of Mont-Valérien, the Mémorial de la France Combattante houses a crypt containing the remains of 16 Second World War combatants and ashes collected from concentration camps. Free guided tours invite you to (re)discover the history of this place where many hostages and resistance fighters were executed.

Perched high above Suresnes, the Mémorial de la France combattante on Mont-Valérien is an emblematic site dedicated to the memory of resistance fighters and hostages shot during the Second World War. Inaugurated on June 18, 1960 by General de Gaulle, the site offers free guided tours, enabling the public to plunge into the heart of history and the duty of remembrance. Tours, which last around 1h30, are available every day except Monday, and require prior booking.

Mont-Valérien was the main sitein France for theexecution of resistance fighters and hostages by the German army during the Occupation. More than a thousand people were shot here, including such emblematic figures as Honoré d'Estienne d'Orves and members of the Manouchian group. After the war, General de Gaulle chose the site to honor the memory of all the servicemen who died for France between 1939 and 1945, and the memorial was inaugurated in 1960.

During your visit, you'll be guided through various areas steeped in history. The memorial esplanade, in the shape of a "V" for victory, is decorated with sixteen high bronze reliefs, symbolizing the various aspects of the Resistance struggle. In the center stands an imposing 12-meter-high Lorraine cross, in front of which the "Flame of Resistance" burns permanently. You'll also enter the crypt, where sixteen servicemen's remains lie, representing the different facets of French involvement during the conflict. The route then takes you to the chapel, whose walls still bear the moving graffiti left by the condemned, then to the clearing where the shootings took place.

This immersion in the heart of Mont-Valérien is much more than a simple historical visit. It is a true duty of remembrance, honoring the courage and sacrifice of those who gave their lives for freedom. As you stroll through these emotionally-charged sites, you'll be invited to reflect on the values of resistance and resilience that have shapedFrance's history. Whether you're a history buff, a teacher wishing to educate your pupils, or simply in search of understanding, the Mémorial de la France combattante offers an enriching and poignant experience.

To take part in these free guided tours, it's essential to reserve your slot in advance. Tours are suitable for all visitors, and special arrangements are made for disabled visitors. The visitor center, located on the memorial esplanade, is open without prior appointment and provides additional information. By visiting Mont-Valérien, you are helping to perpetuate the memory of those who fought for freedom and human dignity. This visit is a unique opportunity to reconnect with an essential page in our history, and to pass on to future generations the lessons learned from these events.

This page may contain AI-assisted elements, more information here.

The Mont Valérien crypt (92): free visits to the memorial to fighting France

Calendar

_