OLLIOULES: World War II – An immersive exhibition with vintage vehicles

In Ollioules, near Toulon, a free exhibition brings the Débarquement de Provence to life with vintage vehicles, lectures, and tributes. L’Externat Saint-Joseph – La Cordeille in Ollioules steps back in time this Saturday, May 23, 2026, by organizing a major day of exhibition and remembrance dedicated to World War II, with a special focus on the Débarquement de Provence. From 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, the public is invited to discover a major part of local and national history for free through a lively and documented reconstruction. A life-sized historical immersion One of the highlights of the event will undoubtedly be the display of vintage military vehicles, offering a concrete vision of the resources deployed during the Liberation. A Half-track and period cannons will be on display, allowing visitors to appreciate the logistical scale of the 1944 operations. The immersion will be completed by the presentation of authentic uniforms, everyday objects, and reconstructed scenes of daily life that will illustrate the context of the era. This visual approach aims to offer a sensory dive into history, going beyond traditional narratives. A program rich in knowledge and tributes The day will be punctuated by several highlights. At 11:30 am, a solemn patriotic ceremony will pay tribute to the school's former students who died for France, linking the duty of remembrance to the very history of the site. The afternoon will be dedicated to presentations by experts: – At 2:30 pm, Jean-Marc Ginoux, an academic and doctor of mathematics and the history of science, will present a lecture entitled "Enigma and the turning point of the war", looking back at the crucial role of decryption in the Allied victory. – At 3:30 pm, Capitaine de Frégate Jean-Claude Chaumery will address "Challenges and issues for the Marine Nationale", building a bridge between the lessons of the past and contemporary realities. A pedagogical and local project This exhibition also highlights the educational work carried out within the school, with the presentation of posters, multimedia materials, and research conducted by the students. A section will be specifically dedicated to the life of the inhabitants of the Var under the Occupation, anchoring this historical event in the region and its population. The Marine Nationale will hold a stand to present its missions and training pathways, particularly the Préparations Militaires Marines. Finally, a space will be reserved for authors, where Jean-Marie Cuzin will sign his books, including his comic book on French submarines and his books on the history of the Var during the war and that of L’Externat Saint-Joseph. The exhibition will take place from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm at 2229 route de Faveyrolles in Ollioules. Admission and parking are free and open to all. For more information, the school's website can be viewed at the following address: esj-lacordeille.com.