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La Corderie Royale in Rochefort
This jewel of the Rochefort Maritime Arsenal was built thanks to Louis XIV and Colbert, his minister. Arsenals were needed if a country were to have a powerful navy.
Colbert decided to build one in Rochefort, on the edge of the Charente, 14 miles from the Atlantic. The first building was that of the "corderie" or rope factory, which began in 1666 and was finished in 1669.
Learn about the history of the site, the skills of the rope-makers, and how to tie knots like an old salt.
Nex exhibition : A sea-going voyage by comic strip. Children's activities, workshops, audio-guides, smartphone game. Restaurant, bookshop and chandlery on site.
