Birthplace of Charles de Gaulle 🇫🇷

Step back into history at the Birthplace of Charles de Gaulle (Maison natale de Charles de Gaulle), an intriguing museum located in Lille within the Hauts-de-France region of France. When you visit this unique destination, you will explore the historic home that originally belonged to Charles de Gaulle's maternal grandparents. It is the exact location where the famous French figure was born back in 1890.

Owned by the Charles-de-Gaulle Foundation and managed by the Departmental Council of Nord, this captivating site officially opened its doors to the public in 1983. As you walk through its preserved spaces, you are experiencing a site of immense national significance; it has been classified as a monument historique since 1989 and earned the prestigious Maisons des Illustres label in 2011. Drawing between 19,000 and 20,000 visitors each year, the museum continues to grow its appeal, having recently undergone an expansion in 2025.

Whether you are a dedicated history enthusiast or simply curious about notable cultural landmarks in France, you will appreciate discovering this intimate piece of heritage that honors one of the nation's most influential historical leaders right where his personal life story first began.

What to see at Birthplace of Charles de Gaulle

• Birthplace where Charles de Gaulle was born in 1890
• Former house of his maternal grandparents
• Classified as a monument historique since 1989
• Awarded the Maisons des Illustres label in 2011
• Features updated spaces following a 2025 expansion

Visiting tips

Be sure to take time to explore the expanded museum areas that were updated in 2025.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Birthplace of Charles de Gaulle is easy to reach on Roubaix’s public transport, and pairs naturally with LaM (Lille Métropole musée d'art moderne, d'art contemporain et d'art brut) and Château de Flers. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Roubaix travel guide.