Spread over two floors in a historic convent in Old Town Limoges, the Musée de la Résistance commemorates and explores the history of the Résistance and of Haute-Vienne’s role in Vichy France. Limoges was a particular hotbed of the Résistance. The massacre of Oradour-sur-Glane occurred only a few miles away. Prepare to have your thoughts provoked by this museum, whose commitment is to keep this history alive for all, especially young people.
Enter through the convent’s wooden door, taking time to appreciate the beautiful understated façade. Take a moment to explore the rotating exhibits on the ground floor, which range from multimedia installations to an exposition of period costumes used during a film about the era. Walk up the stairs to the second floor, where the permanent collection of over 800 objects resides.
Read propaganda posters distributed by the Nazis throughout the region and examine the weapons, including some improvised, used by members of the Résistance. Look at coded messages, once passed back and forth. Learn about the history of French cooperation with the Nazis, particularly in deporting Jews. Stand in awe before the body of an Italian plane, the Reggiane RE-2002, which was shot down and carried back to Limoges by the Résistance as a trophy.
Located on the eastern end of Old Town Limoges, the Musée de la Résistance is only a few blocks away from Limoges Cathedral. Walk to the Musée de la Résistance in 10 minutes from the train station. From the city center, follow the signposts to walk to the museum in 10 minutes.
The museum is open every day except Tuesday, and is open on Sundays only in the afternoon. Admission is available for a fee, and free for those under the age of 26. Written museum information is entirely in French, but multilingual audio guides are available for an additional charge.