Commanderie de La Rochelle, Medieval commandry in central La Rochelle, France

The Commanderie de La Rochelle stood at the site of today's Cour de la Commanderie, in the heart of La Rochelle. Of the complex, a low vaulted hall, fragments of tombstones and remains of a door that led to the chapel survive. Excavations begun in 1982 uncovered the burial slabs of Jehan de Tournay, Geoffroy Géraut, Allis Amorie and Pierre Liège, Templar commander who died in 1268.

The Templars established this compound in the 12th century and gained tax exemption through a charter from Eleanor of Aquitaine. It served as a key stronghold of their order in the city for generations.

This commandery reflects through its remains how the Knights Templar lived in the city and buried their dead during the Middle Ages. The stone slabs and chapel fragments speak to the religious importance of this location for the order.

The site sits in the heart of La Rochelle within the historic district and is easy to reach on foot. Check ahead to see when the archaeological remains are open to visitors, as access may be limited.

The Templars operated their own vessels from this location in the 13th century to ship wine to England and Flanders. This maritime trade activity made the commandery far more than just a religious outpost.