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Saint Lazare Prison Collection

Saint Lazare prison, located in Paris, France, was once infamous for its harsh conditions and overcrowding



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Saint Lazare prison, located in Paris, France, was once infamous for its harsh conditions and overcrowding. Originally built as a royal hunting lodge in the 17th century, it was later converted into a prison for women in the 19th century. The prison gained notoriety for its deplorable living conditions and mistreatment of inmates. Throughout its history, Saint Lazare housed a diverse range of prisoners including political dissidents, prostitutes, and petty criminals. Many famous figures such as writer Oscar Wilde and anarchist Louise Michel were incarcerated within its walls. Despite efforts to reform the prison system in France, Saint Lazare remained a symbol of injustice and oppression. Its closure in 1935 marked the end of an era but its legacy lives on through literature and art that depict the suffering endured by those who were imprisoned there. Today, Saint Lazare stands as a reminder of the dark side of human nature and serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of upholding justice and human rights, and is a place where history meets tragedy, leaving behind stories that will never be forgotten.