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Origin and history

The Wall of the shootings of Valréas is a historical vestige located in the city of Valréas, in Vaucluse. This simple wall, backed by a house and a local printing shop, bears traces of a tragedy that occurred during the Second World War. It has become a symbol of Nazi resistance and repression in the region.

On 8 June 1944, the French Forces de l'Intérieur (FFI) liberated Valréas from German occupation. Four days later, on June 12, 1944, the Germans took over the city and arrested 51 hostages. The latter are shot at this wall, in retaliation for the temporary liberation of the city. The event deeply marks local memory.

The monument, which preserves the memorial plaques reminiscent of the sacrifice of the victims, has been listed as historical monuments since December 22, 1981. Protected parts include unmodified wall sections and inscriptions, while altered parts, such as a storefront, are excluded. The site remains a place of recollection and memory.

The inscriptions on the wall recall the tragedy with poignant phrases like: "They were there, facing this wall waiting for their death" and "To our martyrs, they died so that France could live". These words highlight the horror of the event and the tribute to the victims, while anchoring the monument in the history of the French Resistance.

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