French Lot Region's Châteaux Sheltered Louvre Artworks During WWII
During World War II, the Louvre evacuated thousands of artworks from Paris to safeguard them from conflict. From 1943 to 1945, the Lot region in southwestern France, particularly Château de Montal, served as a key hiding place. The Mona Lisa and over 1,300 other pieces were stored at Montal, while approximately 3,000 artifacts, including the Seated Scribe, were concealed in seven other châteaux. Louvre curators like René Huyghe oversaw operations, ensuring constant surveillance and protection. The effort successfully preserved all artworks, which were later returned to Paris after the war.
Key facts
- The Louvre evacuated 5,667 crates starting September 1, 1939.
- Château de Montal housed the Mona Lisa and 1,300+ artworks from 1943-1945.
- Around 3,000 treasures were hidden in seven châteaux in the Lot region.
- All artworks stored in the Lot were safely returned to Paris after the war.
- Curators forged documents to protect Rothschild family art from Nazi looting.
Entities
Artists
- Leonardo da Vinci
- Antoine Watteau
- Tintoretto
- Édouard Manet
Institutions
- Louvre
- Château de Montal
- Château de la Treyne
Locations
- Lot, France
- Paris
- Saint-Jean-Lespinasse