The Museum of the Order of the Liberation (Musée de l'Ordre de la Libération) in Paris, France, is one of the most significant museums dedicated to the history of the French Resistance, Free France, and the liberation of France during World War II. Located in the Hôtel des Invalides, the museum honors the Companions of the Liberation, individuals and organizations that played a crucial role in the fight against Nazi occupation.
Founded by General Charles de Gaulle in 1967, the museum preserves a unique collection of artifacts, documents, and personal belongings of those who risked their lives for France’s freedom.
🏛️ History of the Museum
🔹 The Creation of the Order of the Liberation (1940)
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The Order of the Liberation was established by General Charles de Gaulle on November 16, 1940, in Brazzaville, the capital of Free France at the time.
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It was the second-highest French decoration after the Legion of Honor, awarded to 1,038 individuals, 18 military units, and 5 cities that showed extraordinary bravery during World War II.
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Recipients were named Companions of the Liberation (Compagnons de la Libération).
🔹 Founding of the Museum (1967)
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After World War II, the order continued as a historical and honorary institution.
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In 1967, the museum was created within the Hôtel des Invalides to preserve the legacy of the Resistance.
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The collection was enriched by donations from veterans, families, and official institutions.
🔹 Renovation and Modernization (2019-2020)
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In 2019, the museum underwent a major renovation to modernize its exhibits.
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It reopened in 2020 with a new layout, multimedia displays, and interactive features.
🖼️ What to See in the Museum
The Musée de l'Ordre de la Libération houses a remarkable collection that brings the history of the French Resistance and Liberation to life.
1️⃣ The Early Resistance and Free France
✔ Personal Belongings of General de Gaulle – Letters, uniforms, and documents from de Gaulle’s call to resistance on June 18, 1940.
✔ Free French Forces Artifacts – Equipment, weapons, and radios used by French soldiers who fought with the Allies.
✔ Exile and Underground Press – Secret newspapers and pamphlets published by the Resistance under Nazi occupation.
2️⃣ The Companions of the Liberation
✔ Portraits and Biographies – Displays honoring the 1,038 men and women who received the Order.
✔ Military Uniforms and Medals – Items worn by Resistance fighters, pilots, and paratroopers.
✔ Commemorative Plaques – Honoring the five cities that received the Order: Nantes, Grenoble, Paris, Vassieux-en-Vercors, and Île de Sein.
3️⃣ The Liberation of France (1944-1945)
✔ D-Day and Allied Landings – Maps, equipment, and accounts from French forces on June 6, 1944.
✔ Weapons and Vehicles – Firearms, explosives, and a restored military jeep used during the Liberation of Paris.
✔ Captured Nazi Artifacts – Flags, documents, and symbols taken from the retreating German forces.
4️⃣ Post-War Legacy
✔ Trials and Justice – Documents from the post-war trials of Nazi collaborators.
✔ Veterans’ Testimonies – Audio and video recordings of firsthand accounts by Companions of the Liberation.
✔ The Order’s Role Today – How the Order of the Liberation continues to honor and educate future generations.
📍 Location and Visitor Information
📍 Address: Hôtel National des Invalides, 51 Boulevard de la Tour-Maubourg, 75007 Paris, France
🚇 Nearest Metro: La Tour-Maubourg (Line 8) / Varenne (Line 13)
🚍 Bus Routes: 28, 69, 82, 92
⏰ Opening Hours
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Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
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Closed on January 1st, May 1st, and December 25th
🎟️ Ticket Prices
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General Admission: €14 (Includes access to other Invalides museums)
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Discounts available for students, seniors, and groups
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Free for children under 18
🕊️ Why Visit the Museum of the Order of the Liberation?
✔ Learn about France’s heroic resistance against Nazi occupation.
✔ See personal artifacts of Free French Forces and Resistance fighters.
✔ Discover the legacy of Charles de Gaulle and the fight for liberation.
✔ Explore the Hôtel des Invalides, a historic site in Paris.
The Musée de l'Ordre de la Libération is a must-visit for history lovers, offering an emotional and educational journey into one of the most defining moments in France’s past.
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