Mémorial de Caen building

The Mémorial de Caen is a building containing multiple exhibition halls filled with artifacts, documents, and multimedia presentations about World War II and its aftermath. The spaces are organized by theme and show events of the period from different perspectives.

The building was designed by Jacques Millet and opened in 1988 by President François Mitterrand, constructed on the site of a former German bunker. That bunker dated from the occupation period during the Battle of Normandy.

The site focuses on peace education and explores how conflicts can be resolved constructively. Rather than dwelling only on war itself, the exhibitions show how societies can move toward understanding and cooperation.

The facility offers guided tours, educational programs, a restaurant, and specialized support for people with different mobility needs. Plan time to explore the various exhibition areas, as the rooms are more extensive than they first appear.

Within the building sits a preserved underground German command bunker that was active during the war. This bunker forms a direct link between the memorial and the events it commemorates.

Location: Caen

Inception: June 6, 1988

Architects: Jacques Millet

GPS coordinates: 49.19747,-0.38392

Latest update: December 15, 2025 13:30