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The Lantern Tower: La Rochelle's Medieval Beacon

Explore La Rochelle's Lantern Tower: a medieval lighthouse, historic prison, and iconic landmark with breathtaking panoramic views.

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The Lantern Tower, a historic landmark in La Rochelle, served as both a lighthouse and a prison. Climb its spiral staircases for panoramic city and ocean views, and discover centuries of maritime history etched in its graffiti-covered walls.

A brief summary to The Lantern Tower of La Rochelle

Local tips

  • Climb to the top of the tower for rewarding panoramic views of La Rochelle and the surrounding coastline.
  • Look for the graffiti left by former prisoners on the tower's walls; some are surprisingly artistic.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Saint-Nicolas Tower and Chain Tower for a comprehensive exploration of La Rochelle's maritime defenses.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Lantern Tower is located within the city of La Rochelle and is easily accessible by foot from most central locations. From the Old Port (Vieux Port), walk along the Quai Valin, then turn left onto Rue sur les Murs. The tower will be on your right. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    La Rochelle's Yélo bus network provides access to the area around the Lantern Tower. Check the Yélo website or app for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. From the La Rochelle train station, take a Yélo bus towards the city center and get off at a stop near the Old Port, such as Place de Verdun. From there, follow the walking directions. A single Yélo bus fare is €1.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in La Rochelle. A taxi from the train station to the Lantern Tower will cost approximately €10-€15. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about The Lantern Tower of La Rochelle

The Lantern Tower (Tour de la Lanterne) is one of La Rochelle's three iconic medieval towers, a sentinel of the city's maritime past. Completed in 1468, it stands as one of the last medieval lighthouses on the Atlantic coast. Originally, the tower helped control access to the port. Its primary function was to serve as a navigational aid, with a lantern at its summit guiding ships safely into the harbor. Over the centuries, the Lantern Tower has played many roles. In the 16th century, it became a prison, housing priests, sailors, and, later, prisoners from the Wars of the Vendée. The tower's walls bear witness to its history as a prison, with over 600 graffiti carved by inmates over three centuries. These engravings offer a glimpse into the lives and experiences of those who were once confined within its walls. Visitors can ascend the tower's many spiral staircases, exploring the various rooms and soaking in the atmosphere of this historic site. At the top, a gallery 38 meters high provides exceptional panoramic views of La Rochelle, the Old Port, and the Atlantic Ocean. The tower also features artistic elements, including stained glass windows and a mirror designed by Swiss artist Gottfried Honegger. The tower stands 55 meters tall and is topped with an octagonal Gothic spire.

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