PHOTOS – In Montpellier, an immersive exhibition reveals the lives of the people of Hérault during 1939-1945
In Montpellier, a fascinating immersive exhibition is taking place at the Pierresvives departmental estate, revealing little-known episodes in the lives of the people of Hérault during the Second World War. Visitors are invited to delve into this tumultuous period, marked by heroic acts of resistance and controversial choices of collaboration. A true historical testimony, the exhibition highlights the challenges, sacrifices, and difficult decisions faced by the population of Hérault.
A Journey Through Time at the Heart of the Pierresvives Departmental Estate
Located in the striking building that houses the Hérault Departmental Archives, the exhibition “EXPERIENCE WAR 1939-1945 IN HÉRAULT” has opened its doors, offering visitors an immersive journey until May 9, 2026. Presented on the ground floor, it unfolds across a large room that faithfully recreates the atmosphere of the era, from bourgeois salons under occupation to street scenes bustling with conflict. Admission is entirely free, allowing a wide audience to discover this poignant chapter of history.
An Immersion in the Heart of Dilemmas and Choices
This exceptional exhibition reveals how, during the war, the people of Hérault navigated the turbulent waters between resistance and collaboration. Among the highlights presented, the historic meeting between Philippe Pétain and General Franco in 1941 at the Montpellier Prefecture is particularly noteworthy. The menu from the lunch they shared is on display, illustrating the attempts at cooperation during this turbulent time. Alongside this, a vibrant tribute is paid to local resistance fighters, with a large wall of photographs and poignant accounts of their courageous acts.
Historical documents and little-known stories
To do justice to the many facets of this dark period, the departmental archives have meticulously gathered period documents, objects, and photographs. These artifacts illustrate not only the choices of collaboration made by some, but also the courageous acts of resistance that marked the Hérault region. Visitors can thus discover a series of personal accounts, some previously unpublished, related to the persecution of Jews and the post-war purges, highlighting the sacrifices and tragedies experienced by the local community. A tribute to the resilience of the people of Hérault This exhibition, in addition to offering an immersive experience, provides a platform to honor the resilience and courage of the inhabitants of Hérault during the Second World War. It offers a nuanced perspective on the impact of the occupation and the difficult decisions that shaped the daily lives and future of this region. Educational and moving, this event allows us to remember and reflect on the lessons to be learned from this period of our history. For more information and other suggestions for activities in Montpellier, you can discover how toavoid ruining your Sunday