Regional Heritage Sites
The Île de Ré preserves a diverse architectural history, ranging from 12th-century Cistercian ruins to 20th-century coastal defenses. This collection features the UNESCO-listed fortifications of Saint-Martin-de-Ré, designed by Vauban in the 17th century, and the distinctive black-and-white spire of Ars-en-Ré. Visitors can explore the island’s military evolution through the 1625 Fort de La Prée and World War II bunkers, alongside historic religious sites like the Abbaye des Châteliers and the fortified church of Saint-Martin.
La citadelle el l’enceinte de Saint-Martin-de-Ré
UNESCO-listed fortifications designed by Vauban between 1681 and 1685. The site includes a star-shaped citadel and extensive urban walls, which historically served as a transit point for prisoners being deported to overseas penal colonies.
Citadelle et fortifications
A prime example of 17th-century military engineering, these UNESCO-protected ramparts and moats surround Saint-Martin-de-Ré. The defenses were designed by Vauban to protect the island's main port from naval attacks.
Église Paroissiale Sainte-Catherine
A 15th-century parish church in the center of La Flotte, featuring Gothic architectural elements and historical importance to the local maritime community.
Maison à pan-de-bois dite de la Vinatrie
A 17th-century timber-framed house located at 15 rue Mérindot. It is a rare surviving example of this architectural style in Saint-Martin-de-Ré.
E Ancienne abbaye Notre-Dame de Ré, dite des Châteliers
The ruins of a 12th-century Cistercian monastery. Destroyed during the Hundred Years' War and the Wars of Religion, the site retains its Gothic arches and the footprint of its former grandeur.
F Fort de La Prée
Fort de La Prée, built in 1625, is located near the eastern end of the Île de Ré, in France.
G Église Saint-Etienne
Famous for its 40-meter-tall black and white spire, which serves as a navigational aid for sailors. The church contains a Romanesque portal and Gothic structural elements.
H Église Saint-Martin
This 15th-century fortified church was partially destroyed during the Wars of Religion. Its ruins and rebuilt sections offer views over the town and the surrounding Vauban fortifications.
Batterie d'artillerie Kora-Karola
A World War II German coastal battery and bunker complex. These concrete structures formed part of the Atlantic Wall defensive line during the German occupation.
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