French Foreign Legion Museum

Nestled in the picturesque town of Aubagne, France, the French Foreign Legion Museum (Musée de la Légion étrangère) stands as a testament to the storied history and valiant exploits of one of the world's most legendary military units. This museum is not just a repository of artifacts; it is a place where history comes alive, offering visitors a profound insight into the lives and sacrifices of the legionnaires who have served France since the Legion's inception in 1831.

The Origins and Evolution of the Museum

The roots of the French Foreign Legion Museum trace back to 1892, with the establishment of the Hall of Honor of the 1st Foreign Regiment in Sidi bel-Abbès, Algeria. This modest beginning evolved into the present museum, officially inaugurated on November 11, 1935. Initially, it comprised three rooms, each dedicated to different eras of the Legion's campaigns: ancient, modern, and citations.

Following the repatriation of the Legion to France in 1962, the collections were transferred to Puyloubier. The construction of new facilities at Camp de la Demande began in 1964, culminating in the museum's opening on April 30, 1966. A significant restructuring in 2003, alongside the creation of the Society of Friends of the French Foreign Legion Museum (SAMLE), provided vital support for the museum's operations and acquisitions.

In 2011, the museum received the prestigious Musée de France label, signifying its importance in the national cultural landscape. Extensive renovations between 2011 and 2013, including the addition of a new wing, doubled the museum's size. This expansion was inaugurated on April 30, 2013, coinciding with the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Camerone, a cornerstone of Legion history.

Exploring the Museum

Upon entering the French Foreign Legion Museum, visitors are greeted by a comprehensive permanent exhibition that chronicles the Legion's history from its founding to contemporary times. The ground floor is divided into three chronological sections: 1831-1914, 1914-1945, and 1945-2000. These sections are followed by thematic areas focusing on the legionnaire as a builder, the modern legionnaire, and a tribute to the original Hall of Honor of the 1st Foreign Regiment.

The journey through the museum culminates in the Hall of Honor, a sacred space for all legionnaires. It is here that new recruits receive their first contract of engagement and where departing legionnaires have their final conversations with their commanders. This hall leads to the crypt, where the names of all Legion officers who have fallen for France are inscribed. A poignant highlight is the wooden hand of Captain Danjou, a revered relic displayed during the solemn Camerone Day ceremony on April 30.

The Outdoor Courtyard and Monument

The museum's courtyard is adorned with cannons and tombstones from various campaigns, offering a tangible connection to the Legion's storied past. The rear of the museum opens onto the parade ground of the 1st Foreign Regiment, featuring the imposing Monument to the Fallen Legionnaires. This sculpture, created by artist Pourquet, depicts a globe guarded by four legionnaires and was initially unveiled in 1931 in Sidi bel-Abbès to mark the Legion's centenary. It was meticulously dismantled and transported to France during the 1962 relocation.

The Legionnaire Uniform Museum

An extension of the main museum, the Legionnaire Uniform Museum in Puyloubier, showcases an extensive collection of uniforms spanning the Legion's history from 1831 to the present. Born from a private collection, this museum features 120 mannequins dressed in meticulously curated uniforms, reflecting the evolution of the Legion's attire. The collection, amassed by passionate collector Raymond Guyader, includes approximately 18,000 pieces displayed on 150 mannequins.

The Documentation Center

For researchers, authors, and historians, the museum's documentation center is an invaluable resource. Managed by the museum's deputy curator, the center houses over 4,500 books and more than 10,000 items in its iconographic collection. Access to these materials is granted with authorization from the commanding general of the Legion, providing a wealth of information for those delving into the Legion's rich history.

Temporary Exhibitions

The French Foreign Legion Museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions, each offering unique perspectives on the Legion's history and cultural impact. Past exhibitions have explored themes such as the Legion's role in World War II, the artistic contributions of legionnaire Hans Hartung, and the depiction of the Legion in cinema. These rotating exhibitions ensure that there is always something new and engaging for repeat visitors.

In conclusion, the French Foreign Legion Museum in Aubagne is more than just a museum; it is a living monument to the bravery, dedication, and sacrifices of the legionnaires who have served France for nearly two centuries. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a military buff, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to this museum offers a profound and moving experience that will deepen your appreciation for the storied legacy of the French Foreign Legion.