Montluc prison, National memorial in 3rd district, Lyon, France
Montluc is a prison facility in Lyon's 3rd district featuring thick stone walls, watchtowers, and cells arranged around a central courtyard. The complex sits in an industrial area and now functions as a memorial space dedicated to those detained there.
German forces occupied this prison from 1942 to 1944, holding thousands of detainees within its walls. Many were subsequently deported to concentration camps or executed on the premises.
The site displays exhibitions and personal testimonies from those held here during World War II. Visitors can learn about the experiences of prisoners through photographs, letters, and recorded accounts.
This site is open to visitors through guided tours conducted in French, with limited wheelchair accessibility throughout the complex. It is advisable to arrange your visit in advance, as access is restricted to scheduled tours only.
The Wall of the Executed still bears the marks of bullet holes from executions carried out on the spot. It stands as a silent witness to the prison's darkest chapter.
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