Citadel of Saint-Martin-de-Ré
Citadel of Saint-Martin-de-Ré, Military citadel in Saint-Martin-de-Ré, France
The square-shaped citadel features four bastions, three demi-lunes, and a counterguard, with a moat and covered walkway surrounding its perimeter.
Built in 1690 by Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban, the citadel protected the island from British fleets and later served as a transit point for convicts.
The citadel houses a chapel, barracks, arsenal, and officers' pavilion, representing French military architectural traditions of the 17th century.
Guided tours of the ramparts operate during summer evenings through the local tourist office at Quai Nicolas Baudin.
The facility maintains its dual function as both a UNESCO World Heritage site and France's largest central prison, accommodating 485 inmates.
Location: Saint-Martin-de-Ré
Part of: Fortifications of Vauban, direction interrégionale des services pénitentiaires de Bordeaux
Address: 6J4R+MG, 17410 Saint-Martin-de-Ré, France timezone
GPS coordinates: 46.20484,-1.35884
Latest update: August 22, 2025 12:27
The Île de Ré reveals preserved sites beyond its main destinations. The salt marshes of Loix and the Lilleau des Niges Nature Reserve host more than 300 species of migratory birds, while the Baleines Lighthouse offers a view of the Atlantic Ocean. Beaches such as Trousse Chemise and Les Grenettes are characterized by their natural dunes and conditions suitable for water sports. The Fier d'Ars Port maintains its traditional fishing activity with boats and houses with green shutters. The Salt Eco-museum traces the history of salt harvesting and the work of salt workers in the marshes. The Baleines Farm combines agricultural production with shellfish farming near the coast. Villages like Loix offer traditional shops and exhibitions on local customs. These sites reflect the maritime heritage and traditions shaping the island's identity for generations.
Abbaye Notre-Dame-de-Ré
5 km
Église Saint-Martin de Saint-Martin-de-Ré
737 m
Maison centrale de Saint-Martin-de-Ré
324 m
Ernest Cognacq Museum
498 m
Marché médiéval
3.1 km
Église Sainte-Catherine
3 km
City walls of Saint-Martin-de-Ré
676 m
Marché Ouvert de Bois Plage
3.3 km
Temple protestant de Saint-Martin-de-Ré
788 m
Maison de la Vinatrie
862 m
Hôtel des Cadets
801 m
Plage du Petit Sergent
4.4 km
Demeure
492 m
Pointe du Grouin
4.9 km
Hôpital Saint-Honoré de Saint-Martin-de-Ré
730 m
Plage de Gros Jonc
4.1 km
Plage des Gouillauds
4.8 km
Clocher Observatoire de Saint-Martin en Ré
744 m
Fort de Grouin
4.9 km
Hôtel de Clerjotte
499 m
Musée du Platin
3.2 km
Temple de Église réformée de France
3.4 km
Plage de la Clavette
2.8 km
Plage de l'Arénault
3.7 km
Église Notre-Dame-de-tous-les-Saints du Bois-Plage-en-Ré
3.3 km
Plage de l'Arnerault
3.7 km
Plage naturiste du Peu Bernard
5 km
Plage de la Chargé Neuve
3.4 kmReviews
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