Eighty years have passed since that fateful day. Today, we stand before the Mémorial Jean Moulin Plaque in Lyon. It commemorates a pivotal moment in French history. Jean Moulin, a key figure in the French Resistance, was arrested here.
This Mémorial Jean Moulin Plaque marks the spot of Jean Moulin’s last journey as a free man. The events leading to his capture are dramatic. On June 21 1943 Moulin met with Raymond Aubrac and Colonel Emile Schwarzfeld. They were on their way to a crucial meeting.
They took the Croix-Paquet funicular railway. Locals called it “la Ficelle”. After crossing the Boulevard de la Croix-Rousse they boarded tramway line 33. Their destination was Caluire. But German soldiers were waiting there.
A memorial plaque was inaugurated in 2011. It was placed on the wall of the first building on Rue Vaucanson. This Mémorial Jean Moulin Plaque serves as a reminder. It honors Moulin’s sacrifice. It also marks the beginning of a tragic turn of events.
The plaque at 2 Place Antonin Judard commemorates the 80th anniversary of Jean Moulin’s arrest. He secretly occupied this building from September 1942 to June 21 1943. It was his last free address. He was arrested in Caluire on that very day.
The mayor of Lyon, Gregory Doucet, emphasized the importance of remembering Jean Moulin. A wreath and the Mémorial Jean Moulin Plaque were placed in front of the building. The inscription reads “Jean Moulin. Unifier of the resistance lived clandestinely in this building from September 1942 to June 21 1943 the day of his arrest in Caluire.”
Leaving this place marked Jean Moulin’s final journey as a free man. He headed to the home of Doctor Dugoujon in Caluire. An important meeting was scheduled. It aimed to unite resistance movements. But the Gestapo intervened. Jean Moulin and some of his comrades were arrested.
Jean Moulin was a high-profile member of the French Resistance. He was arrested during a meeting with fellow Resistance leaders. It took place in Doctor Fréderic Dugoujon’s home in Caluire-et-Cuire. The Mémorial Jean Moulin Plaque outside commemorates Moulin’s arrest.
During interrogation by Klaus Barbie Jean Moulin remained silent. A sculpture stands alongside the Mémorial Jean Moulin Plaque. A memorial inside the doctor’s home can be visited. Visiting times are limited so check ahead.
As you stand before the Mémorial Jean Moulin Plaque reflect on the courage of Jean Moulin. Think about the sacrifices made by members of the French Resistance. This Mémorial Jean Moulin Plaque is a symbol of their fight for freedom. It ensures that their story will never be forgotten.