Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg — Attraction in Strasbourg

A wonderful, well organized museum that effectively brings Strasbourg's rich history to life through creative and effective narratives (except for one) and tactile exhibits.

My reason for 3 stars however is the surprising and distressing downplay of the plight of Strasbourg's jews during the nazi occupation and the heroes and villains that determined their ultimate fate. Aside from a few subtle references (there were occasional mentions) there was virtually no mention of the rise of antisemitism and the horrors inflicted on the community. The narrative chosen by the museum felt intentional leaving me to feel that 80 years later France is still ambivalent about its relationship with its Jewish community.

They could have made mention of any of the numerous stories to tell such as:

The "Nazi University of Strasbourg's" use of fresh Jewish specimens to experiment on as guinea pigs and where Dr. August Hirt stored them in a special liquid until needed.

The posthumous award given to Chief Rabbi of France, Rene Hirschler (who was awarded the Medal of Resistance), who at great risk helped British officers flee to safety and remained in communication with the community in an effort to help them keep their spirits up.

The award also given to Strasbourg Police Commissioner, Alfred Thimmesch, for -- at great risk--creating false documents for Jewish families, saving dozens and countless generations in the process.

......but no. And my feelings about this beautiful city and France in general is sadly diminished...

Small, but incredible museum.

Security was a bit much. One security guard sailed straight into me, demanding that I show him my ticket for entrance. I felt like I was being unreasonably watched the entire time, as if they thought I was going to do something warranting an incident report or police response.

One security guard walked past me, and as he passed he made three cryptic coughs, as if to signal to another security guard or employee in the next room that I was entering soon. It was actually quite discomforting. So much so that I decided NOT to spend my money in the boutique on the way out.

Regardless, the rest of the experience was incredible and informative, and highly recommended to anyone who would like to learn a brief summary of the history of Alsace from 5000 BC up to the Second World War and implications of the...

Important: I didn't request for an audio guide, though is available

Very interesting for understanding the story of the city! It covers a long history way of Strasbourg, explaining details and important things and people of the city and what have happend. Really is a great museum if you like history and doesn't not know the Strasbourg one. Although I really love it, I heard from a local that he didn't like it. So perhabs if you already know Strasbourg, there's no fun. Also, the museum has some interactice things, but they are not majority and also not so fun (exception to the end 20th forhead). Most of the museum are like 'classical' ones, with a lot of text. There are places to set while reading...