Historically known as ‘Rupella’ (meaning little rock), La Rochelle was at originally a little rocky harbour in the midst of marshland.
The city is often referred to by a well-known phrase “La Rochelle; belle et rebelle“ due to its dynamic history and the ‘rebel’ city liking to be ‘different’ from the rest of France.
Situated on the Atlantic coast, La Rochelle stands out for its maritime wealth and its historical heritage.
Having taken a stronghold in the Middle Ages, thanks in particular to its old port and its maritime connections, the city is distinguished by its strategic location which is is protected by two big islands, (now known as Ile de Ré and Ile d’Oléron).
Famous for its many explorers, La Rochelle was the starting point for many voyages, notably for the discovery of the New World in Canada (discovered by Jacques Cartier).
Indeed, La Rochelle has changed over time. A stronghold of the “Protestant Republic” of France represented by the emblematic Mayor Jean Guiton, the city has suffered many wars.
As a result, Cardinal de Richelieu (under the reign of LOUIS XIII) built dykes, to strengthen the historic city.
The famous French architect Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban (under the reign of the Sun King LOUIS XIV) built the towers and ramparts around the Ile de Ré, La Rochelle and Fouras, these fortifications made La Rochelle one of the most important commercial and military cities in France.
Napoleon I, made La Rochelle part of history in the 19th century thanks to his stay in Rue de l’Escale, famous for its cobblestones from Canada.
The city’s strategic location and ramparts made it one of the last cities to surrender to the German occupation on 8 May 1945 at 00:00.
From the Francofolies to the international film festival and the Grand Pavois, the historic city has developed over the years and is now one of the most visited and popular tourist destinations in France.
La Rochelle will take you on a journey through time; its sea air, its sunshine, its medieval cobblestones, its vaulted arcades, its historic railway station, its big clock, its town hall adorned with the miniature of Henry IV and above all its three imposing towers in the heart of the old port… So many monuments make up this picturesque city, truly a beautiful and rebellious town!
Written by Neïl Ben Arfa.
If you are interested in buying or selling in La Rochelle, the team at our agency in La Rochelle will be delighted to work with you. Please get in touch.
larochelle@maxwellbaynes.com