Couvent des dames blanches, Historical convent in La Rochelle, France.
The Couvent des Dames Blanches is a religious building in La Rochelle made up of two separate pavilions connected by a lower structure along Quai Maubec. The complex displays varied architectural styles that reflect its age and different construction phases.
The Sisters of Notre-Dame de la Charité du Refuge founded the convent in 1715 as a refuge for women in need. During the French Revolution, the building was transformed into a prison before eventually becoming municipal property.
The cloister functions as a display area for local artworks and historical items, particularly during summer months. Visitors encounter contemporary creations alongside objects that tell the story of the city's past.
The complex is open to visitors Monday through Friday with no admission fee required. It's best to check ahead before visiting since the building may close on certain holidays and special occasions.
Architect Gustave Alaux designed this religious complex, which today houses the administrative offices of the La Rochelle metropolitan community. The building thus blends its original spiritual purpose with modern administrative functions in an unusual way.
Location: La Rochelle
Architects: Gustave Alaux
Address: place Jean-Baptiste-Marcet
GPS coordinates: 46.16010,-1.14800
Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:47
La Rochelle documents over seven centuries of French maritime history through its medieval fortifications and Renaissance architecture. The old port is guarded by three stone towers from the 14th and 15th centuries - the Saint Nicolas Tower, the Tour de la Chaîne, and the Lantern Tower - which once controlled access to the sea. The Great Clock Gate from 1476 connects the harbor front to the old city streets. The city center preserves buildings from the 16th through 18th centuries, with arcaded passages along Rue du Palais and Rue des Merciers. The Fontaine des Pilori dates from the 16th century, while the City Hall features Renaissance facades from 1595. The Musée du Nouveau Monde examines La Rochelle's transatlantic trade connections. The Les Minimes marina now serves more than 5,000 boats, making it one of the largest yacht harbors on the French Atlantic coast. The modern Passerelle Nelson Mandela, opened in 1993, carries pedestrians across the main harbor. Beyond the city center, the bridge to Île de Ré extends roughly 2 miles (3 kilometers) across the Bay of Biscay.
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