Centrale pénitentiaire d'Eysses, Historical detention center in Villeneuve-sur-Lot, France
The Eysses Penitentiary Center is a detention facility in Villeneuve-sur-Lot housed within a former Benedictine monastery building and provides around 300 detention spaces today. The structure blends religious architecture with contemporary security installations while operating under regional administration from Bordeaux.
Originally a Benedictine monastery, the building was converted into a detention facility in 1803. The site gained significance during World War II as a place where political prisoners were held.
The facility incorporates workshop spaces where inmates develop practical skills and engage in creative activities that shape daily life. These programs give the place meaning beyond its primary function as a detention site.
The facility is not open to public visits as it remains an active, secured detention site with restricted access. Visitors can observe the historical monastery architecture from outside while exploring the surrounding area.
On February 19, 1944, an uprising occurred here when prisoners took control of sections of the facility for several hours in a dramatic confrontation. This event remains an overlooked yet important moment in the site's detention history.
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