Fresnes Prison

Fresnes Prison is a penitentiary center in Fresnes, located south of Paris, with multiple sections for different inmate populations. The facility contains large cell blocks, a women's section, and a medical ward for healthcare.

The prison was built between 1895 and 1898 and introduced a new architectural design with cell blocks extending from central corridors. This layout became a model for modern prison architecture in the region.

The prison preserves memory of resistance fighters who were detained here during the German occupation between 1940 and 1944. These memorial plaques tell part of the story of this period.

The facility is located in the southern suburbs of Paris and serves as one of the three main detention centers in the Île-de-France region. Access is restricted and typically requires special authorization from the authorities.

In 2003, a notable security breach occurred when an Italian inmate orchestrated a coordinated escape using explosives and weapons. This incident prompted significant improvements to security measures at the facility.

Location: Fresnes

Inception: 1898

GPS coordinates: 48.76361,2.32194

Latest update: December 18, 2025 11:41