Towers of La Rochelle, La Rochelle

The Saint Nicolas Tower is a pentagonal Tower, that is an imposing fortress with crenellated walls & a keep. It was established in 1384, named after the patron saint of sailors and is one of the three medieval towers guarding the port in La Rochelle, France. In 1879 the French government classified it as a 'Monument Historique.'

Saint Nicolas Tower together with the Chain Tower really frame the incredible majestic entrance to La Rochelle Vieux-Port. Named after the patron saint of sailors, Saint Nicolas Tower is about 42 metres in height and was built in the fourteenth century. It was connected to the Chain Tower by massive chain used at night to close the port channel. Approaching the Saint Nicolas Tower one can immediately appreciate the pentagonal shape with circular turrets. Even when I was climbing up the staircase to the main entrance its purpose as a buttress isn't too obvious until I got inside. The main room is octagonal shape with ribbed vaulted ceiling. This then leads you to the second chamber and to other rooms which includes a chapel then to the lower parapet. The upper parapet is where the real magic happens with spectacularly stunning views of the harbour entrance and Vieux-Port and of course across to the Chain Tower and Lantern Tower and best of all, Ile d'Aix. A must visit monument in La Rochelle and costs 6€ per one tower or 9€ for the three towers. Great for the whole family and kids. Winter is ideal because it's not too crowded.