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 as a result. read more