Musée du Libertador San Martin - Boulogne-sur-mer

The Musée du Libertador San Martin in Boulogne-sur-Mer tells the story of a true icon of South America.

General San Martin , virtually unknown in France, is a hero in South America. And not without reason... This so-called “Libertador” was responsible for the independence of Argentina (1816), Chile (1817) and Peru (1812), which had been under Spanish rule for three centuries. After leaving his country for Europe 20 years ago, he accidentally discovered Boulogne-sur-Mer when he wanted to travel to England . The general falls completely in love with this lively city where there is always something to do and where there is a pleasant atmosphere.

For two years, from 1848 until his death in 1850, he lived at Grande-Rue 113, with the lawyer and journalist Adolphe Gérard. His last residence, which was bought by the Argentine state in 1926, is now a museum. Visitors come from all over the world, but especially from Argentina, where the general is considered a hero. The house has been preserved and, for an even more realistic impression, San Martin's furniture and souvenirs are on display. The rooms have been restored to their original state. San Martin's body was buried in the crypt of the Notre-Dame Basilica from 1850 to 1861, before being transferred to the Cathedral of Buenos Aires.

Inside hangs the spirit of San Martin... There are letters, written texts, books, personal belongings and uniforms to be found, but also various objects about his heroic deeds. You will discover how the general crossed the Andes and attacked Lima from the sea to liberate Argentina. Thousands of men and donkeys were needed to transport the weapons at an altitude of 3,000 meters. .. A unique museum where you feel like you are thousands of kilometers away, to discover a piece of unknown history.

Willem Vandenameele