Built at the end of the 12th century, the Lantern tower at La Rochelle, takes place at the corner of the wall of the Saint-Jean-du-Pérot district. The last medieval lighthouse on the Atlantic coast, it now enjoys a classification as an historic monument.
Originally the residence of the Ship Disarmer, responsible for disarming ships before entering the port, the Lantern Tower was subsequently equipped with a monumental spire and a lantern used to guide sailors.. Fifty-five meters high, in the 16th century it became a prison for prisoners of war, sailors and a little later, Protestants and Vendée insurgents.
Restored at the start of the 20th century, the Lantern Tower then resumed its medieval appearance. Since 2014 and 2015, it has hosted two gargoyles bearing the effigy of Wolinski and Cabu, the cartoonists and cartoonists killed in the Charlie Hebdo attack.
Open to visitors, the monument notably unveils flamboyant style three-lobed windows as well as several rooms rich in graffiti of English or Dutch sailors, like the lower room, the guard room, the dormitory, the cells, the room of the bitter or the room Jehan Mérichon, named after the former mayor of La Rochelle who financed the completion of the tower. A walkway also allows you to enjoy a breathtaking view of the city.
