The Maison Zola and the Dreyfus Museum open their doors to you in Médan. These gems of the region are offered to all as a tribute to Émile Zola's fight for justice and fairness. Terres de Seine, a land of history!
Emile Zola acquired his "cabin" near the Seine after the success of "L'Assommoir." He expanded it gradually as his literary successes grew, adding the Nana Tower and later the Germinal Tower. The gardener, Mr. Lenôtre, complemented it with a lush garden and numerous animals, allowing Alexandrine Zola, an excellent cook, to have everything at hand. Today, the house is labeled as a "Maison des Illustres". It was here that the famous "Soirées de Médan" took place, and where he spent eight months a year writing.
Emile Zola lived in Médan for 24 years, which were marked by his involvement in the Dreyfus Affair. Naturally, the house now stands next to the unique Dreyfus Museum, a witness to these destinies and a place of memory. The museum presents and documents Zola's commitment, the judicial error of the affair, the gap between power and public opinion, and the role of the press through a very comprehensive historical and didactic presentation.
Emile Zola lived in Médan for 24 years, which were marked by his involvement in the Dreyfus Affair. Naturally, the house now stands next to the unique Dreyfus Museum, a witness to these destinies and a place of memory. The museum presents and documents Zola's commitment, the judicial error of the affair, the gap between power and public opinion, and the role of the press through a very comprehensive historical and didactic presentation.