Memorial of the Shoah

It only opened on January 27, 2005, but already it is one of the most moving museums in France. The Memorial is an awareness-raising center that presents the history of genocide during WWII. It captures your imagination as soon as you enter what looks like a walled fortification. In the outer courtyard you are greeted by a huge urn-like sculpture inscribed with the names of the camps where the Shoah/Holocaust took place. Then, before you even enter the museum, you have walls displaying 76,000 names of Jewish men, women and children who were murdered and who died without a grave. The crypt contains ashes of victims collected from the camps. It ranks with similar museums in other countries and should not be missed. You will be moved no matter your age, religion or political attitudes.   Offered:   Films, slides, interviews, personal letters, photographs and performances from time to time. Ask for a list of special events planned six months in advance. These activities include lectures, films, concerts, special events and children’s activities. There are guided walks too where you can be taken through the Marais and La Ruche, where many Jewish painters once lived. There is a display of letters, posters and newspaper articles on anti-Semitism and the Dreyfus case. There is a charge for special events, lectures and concerts and tours to sites outside the museum. (eg. Drancy for students) For Info and reservations call, 01 53 01 86 53 Monday – Friday 9:30am-5pm   Statuary:   There is an eternal flame, which is a symbol of the unknown Jewish martyr. It is in a large, darkened room and very moving. On the walls in the courtyard are the names of those who died in the camps.   Caution :   Some stairs, and some areas are dimly lit. Narrow entrance with necessary security. Many of the photographs are vivid. Not recommended for young children.   Our Opinion:   Even if you’ve visited other museums related to the holocaust, we recommend this exceptional set of archives, photographs, letters, records and posters that describe a collective history and personal destiny. The 2,550 photographs call to mind the fate of Jewish children deported and the crimes committed against humanity. There are many services offered. Inquire ahead for any special needs like research, groups, tours or for the disabled. On the fourth floor there is an exhibition about Nuremburg. This alone can take a few hours if you read everything available.   The whole museum is quite moving and complete. It certainly ranks with other museums on the subject of the Holocaust around the world.  Don’t miss it.   Façade:   You enter a large square with a giant urn-like statue that has the camp names inscribed on the outside. On the wall a giant star of David faces the tablets with the names of the French Jews who were murdered during the war. There is even place for names unknown but brought to light later. Flowers and memorial candles dot the statue of the inscription area.  The side wall of the building is made up of intertwined stars of David.   Best Time to Go:   Anytime.  Best when the groups are gone. Closed Saturdays and some Jewish holidays. Every second Sunday there is a free tour in English at 3pm.   Museum Shop :   There is a shop and library open during the same hours.   Address:   17, rue Geoffroy l’Asnier 75004 Paris On the Right bank near quai de l’Hotel de Ville   Tel: 01 42 77 44 72 www.memorialdelashoah.org   Times:   Sunday-Friday 10am-6pm Thursday open until 10pm Closed public holidays and some Jewish holidays   Entry Fee :   Free for permanent exhibition. Groups and Guided Tours: Call 01 53 01 17 25/26   Reservations required. Individual Guides: Call 01 42 77 44 72 Reservations required.   GettingThere:   Metro: Saint-Paul or Hotel de Ville Bus :   67 76 69 96 An easy walk from Hotel de Ville or Ile St. Louis     Parking :   Place Boudoyer, (underground)   Rue Lobaul, Pont Marie (rue de L’Hotel de Ville)     Cloakroom :   Lockers and keys provided.   Disabled:   Ramps and elevators provided. For info. about access call, 01 42 77 44 72 Benches are provided inside and out.   Toilets:   Available and well indicated.