Marc Bloch to Be Transferred to the Panthéon on June 23, 2026

Paris – 22.06.2026: On June 23, 2026, the ceremonial transfer of the prominent French historian and resistance fighter Marc Bloch to the Panthéon will take place. Together with his wife Simonne Vidal, he will be officially honored—a recognition of his life’s work, his scholarly contributions, and his commitment to the resistance against the German occupation.

Marc Bloch, born in 1886, is regarded as one of the most influential historians of the 20th century. As co-founder of the renowned journal „Annales. Histoire, Sciences sociales,“ he revolutionized historical science through an interdisciplinary approach and new research methods. Among his key works are „Les Rois thaumaturges“ (1924), in which he examines the theory of the healing kings, as well as „La société féodale“ (1939-1940), which provides a detailed analysis of the structures of medieval feudalism.

During the German occupation of France in World War II, Bloch joined the resistance. He was arrested by the Gestapo in 1944 and executed. His transfer to the Panthéon occurs 82 years after his death and symbolizes recognition of his courage and sacrifice for France.

The official ceremony will be led by the French president on June 23 at 9 p.m. From 6:30 p.m., Rue Soufflot in the 5th arrondissement of Paris will be open to the public to participate in the celebrations.

In advance, the École normale supérieure and other institutions are organizing a series of events honoring Bloch. On June 22 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. and on June 23 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., a “Veillée républicaine” will take place in the historic ENS library—a memorial evening and day where Bloch’s academic community reflects on his life and work. ENS has also named a room in his memory.

On July 3, 2026, a reading of Bloch’s significant work „L’Étrange Défaite“ will be presented at the Panthéon. Actor Xavier Gallais will recite the text in the monumental nave of the Panthéon, deepening understanding of Bloch’s analysis of France’s rapid collapse in 1940.

Starting June 25, the exhibition „Marc Bloch, l’esprit de l’Histoire” will open at the Panthéon, highlighting Bloch’s intellectual and personal journey. His historical research findings are showcased alongside his stance and commitment against oppression and war.

These events provide a comprehensive picture of a historian who is regarded far beyond his academic achievements as a symbol of resistance and intellectual integrity in France. The panthéonisation of Marc Bloch emphasizes the lasting importance of his work for French society and historical scholarship.