Visit the three towers of La Rochelle, remains of the medieval maritime fortifications.

The town's development started in the 11th century and was assured from the 14th century on by the protection afforded by the towers. The Saint Nicolas and Chaîne towers were particularly important, as they controlled entry to the port by the many trading ships.

All three towers in La Rochelle were designed to be lived in, but from the 16th to the 18th centuries two of them (namely the Saint Nicolas and Chaîne towers) were also used as prisons for Huguenots and foreign sailors. They were then used as military prisons in the 19th century. The Lanterne tower was used to disarm boats before they came into port and served as a lighthouse.

Bring the whole family - everyone will love it
Explore at your leisure and spend more time at your favourite parts
Speedy booking - select your tickets now and you won't miss a thing

Important to know

Know in advance:

the monument is closed every Monday from September 1st to June 1st
the monument is closed on December 25th, January 1st, May 1st
free admission 1st Sunday of the month (from 1 January to 31 March and from 1 November to 31 December)
free admission during the "European Heritage Days" on the 3rd weekend of September
free admission for children less than 18 years, and for European citizens from 18 to 25 years, disabled people, and journalists

Cancellation policy

Please note that this experience is non-refundable, even if cancelled in advance.

Entrance ticket

Audio guide

Booking fee

Good news! No extra fees are applied to this booking.

Location

Centre des monuments nationaux, Résidence "La Corvette" 22, quai Louis Durand, 17088 La Rochelle

Meeting point:

Show your ticket at the entrance of the towers. Opening hours: Every day from 10.00am to 1.00pm and from 2.15pm to 5.30pm | last admission 45 min before closing.