FR23 Port Museum: A Port is born

Timetable: 13:30-15:00.

Students and teachers are welcomed by the guide who describes in detail the fundamental historical events of the thirdFrench port from the seventeenth century on: the various Dutch and Spanish dominations and how, from Iceland to Cape Horn, from Africa to Asia, the Dunkirkis have ventured on all the seas of the globe. 

The guide tells about the heroic actions of the corsair Jean Bart, a central figure in the history of the city, whose portraits can be admired in the rooms of the museum. 

It's also possible to admire the models of some ships which witness the technological evolution reached by the city of Dunkerque and Northern Europe countries, in the nautical sector and its related industries. 

Artifacts, photos and videos help the visitors understand the conditions of the sailors and of the workers of the area as well as of the women, who were starting to gain a social identity. 

A large panel illustrates the area of Dunkirk in the first thirty years of the 1900s, and some rare historical artifacts fromthe two world wars can be admired in the rooms. The last video shows the harbour as it is today. 

The museum also offers an educational itinerary for children with wooden games and interactive areas.  

Students recognize the importance of history that has determined the cultural identity of the area. 

They become aware of the important events that took place during the 2nd World War (Operation Dynamo) which gave rise to the current geopolitics of European identity.