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La Rochelle's Lantern Tower: A Beacon of History

Explore La Rochelle's iconic Lantern Tower: a medieval lighthouse and former prison with stunning city views and centuries of history.

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The Lantern Tower of La Rochelle, a medieval lighthouse and former prison, stands as a testament to the city's rich maritime past. Explore its historic graffiti and enjoy panoramic views from its Gothic spire.

A brief summary to The Lantern Tower of La Rochelle

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for the climb up the tower's many steps.
  • Bring a camera to capture the panoramic views of La Rochelle from the top of the tower.
  • Look for the historic graffiti carved into the walls by former prisoners.
  • Check the opening hours before visiting, as they vary depending on the season.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the La Rochelle train station, walk north along Avenue de Mulhouse, then turn left onto Avenue du Général de Gaulle. Continue straight, crossing the bridge, and follow Quai Valin along the Old Port. Turn right onto Rue sur les Murs. The Lantern Tower will be on your left. The walk is approximately 20 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From the La Rochelle train station, take the Illico 1b bus towards the city center. Get off at the 'Place de Verdun' stop. From there, walk towards the Old Port and turn right onto Rue sur les Murs. The Lantern Tower will be on your left. The bus fare is €1.50.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available at the La Rochelle train station. A taxi ride to the Lantern Tower will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic, and cost around €10-€15.

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Discover more about The Lantern Tower of La Rochelle

The Lantern Tower, or Tour de la Lanterne, is a prominent historical landmark in La Rochelle, France, offering visitors a glimpse into the city's maritime and military history. Constructed between the 12th and 15th centuries, it is the last medieval lighthouse on the Atlantic coast. Originally built to monitor ship traffic and guide vessels into the port, the tower later served as a prison, housing priests, sailors, and prisoners of war. Rising to a height of 55 meters (180 feet), the Lantern Tower boasts a unique architecture, combining a cylindrical base with an octagonal Gothic spire. Visitors can ascend the tower's winding staircases to discover several rooms adorned with over 600 graffiti etched by inmates over centuries. These carvings offer a poignant insight into the lives and experiences of those who were once confined within its walls. The tower also features flamboyant-style three-lobed windows and restored elements, including gargoyles depicting cartoonists killed in the Charlie Hebdo attack. From the tower's gallery, visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of La Rochelle, the Old Port, and the surrounding coastline. The Lantern Tower stands as a symbol of La Rochelle's resilience and enduring spirit, offering a captivating experience for history enthusiasts and sightseers alike.

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