If you are passionate about history, you will soon discover that La Rochelle has an impressive heritage that, in many ways, is linked to the American continent!
Our maritime city is bursting with history having been a Protestant city, a rebellious city, the starting point for the New World, an occupied city during the Second World War... so make sure you take the time to really visit La Rochelle and have a better understanding of its past!
New Rochelle: La Rochelle's little sister
Did you know? La Rochelle has a little sister in the USA, more specifically in the State of New York... the city of New Rochelle! Founded in the 17th century by Huguenots from La Rochelle, who were fleeing Protestant persecution, New Rochelle is today a suburb of New York City and is renowned for its excellent quality of life! Officially twinned since 1957, the two cities maintain strong links.
The Saint Nicolas Tower and the Chain Tower: city landmarks
You cannot miss these two city landmarks... these two towers rise majestically over the Historic Port. Used as defensive fortresses, as well as prisons, they have protected La Rochelle for centuries. They also controlled the entry of ships to the port and were an important gateway to America.
The Musée du Nouveau Monde (New World Museum): a valuable insight into La Rochelle’s maritime past
A dynamic port city, La Rochelle still retains traces of its glorious maritime past. Its magnificent private mansions bear witness to the wealth of the shipowners who had them built in the 18th century. One such property is Hôtel Fleuriau, which has housed the Musée du Nouveau Monde since 1982. This museum is dedicated to the links between France and the Americas with a collection that not only presents the discovery of the new continent but also bears witness to our colonial history and the role played by La Rochelle in the slave trade. And what’s more... entry is free for students!
La Rochelle Bunker: delving into the heart of the Second World War
To discover another period of La Rochelle’s history, why not visit the city’s WW2 bunker! Built in total secrecy in 1941 by the Germans, this 300m² bunker was converted into a museum in the 1990s. You will find a labyrinth of rooms, each focusing on a particular theme: daily life of La Rochelle citizens during the Occupation, the Allied victory in the Battle of the Atlantic, Liberation... an informative and enriching journey!
The Phare du Bout du Monde (End-of-the-World Lighthouse): a homage to Argentina
On the Minimes headland, close to our campus, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Phare du Bout du Monde. This is an exact replica of the lighthouse on Isla de los Estados (Staten Island), located off the tip of Patagonia, and was inaugurated in the year 2000. The original abandoned Argentinean lighthouse was discovered by a great adventurer, André Bronner, who, in 1994, decided to have it rebuilt before making a replica for La Rochelle. This year, to celebrate its 20th anniversary, the Phare du Bout du Monde Association is offering the general public the opportunity to become a lighthouse keeper for 24 hours... an unusual but unforgettable experience!
