La Rochelle: Templars Walking Tour

Uncover the rich Templar heritage of La Rochelle on this guided walking tour. Over 75 minutes, you’ll explore the city’s historic landmarks and maritime past. From the picturesque Old Port to the iconic Grosse Horloge clock tower, each step reveals La Rochelle’s deep connection to the Order of the Temple. What secrets lie along Rue des Templiers? The tour culminates at the scenic Place de la Caille, leaving you eager to discover more about this captivating Templar legacy.

Key Points

• A 75-minute guided tour exploring La Rochelle’s historical ties to the Order of the Temple, covering key landmarks and the Templars’ maritime trade.
• The tour begins at Square Quai Valin, the Old Port, and visits the iconic Grosse Horloge clock tower, Cathédrale Saint-Louis, and Rue des Templiers.
• The tour showcases the vibrant atmosphere of the Old Port, with its historic fishing and trading vessels, seafood restaurants, and charming boutiques.
• The Grosse Horloge clock tower, a 14th-century structure, symbolizes La Rochelle’s maritime heritage and serves as a gate and clock tower.
• The Cathédrale Saint-Louis, a magnificent 14th-century cathedral, features ornate Gothic architecture and connects to the Order of the Temple’s legacy in the city.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This Templars Walking Tour in La Rochelle offers a 75-minute exploration of the city’s historical ties to the Order of the Temple.

Priced from $163.13 per group of up to 5 participants, the tour is available in French, English, and Spanish.

With a flexible cancellation policy and booking options, it provides an immersive experience led by a live guide.

The tour covers key landmarks like the Old Port, the iconic Grosse Horloge clock tower, and the Cathédrale Saint-Louis, while delving into the Templars’ maritime trade and influence in the Middle Ages.

The tour explores key landmarks like the Old Port, Grosse Horloge, and Cathédrale Saint-Louis, and the Templars’ maritime influence in the Middle Ages.

Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate attire are recommended.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour kicks off at Square Quai Valin, La Rochelle’s bustling Old Port (Vieux-Port).

Participants will then visit the iconic Grosse Horloge, a 14th-century clock tower.

Next, they’ll explore the striking Cathédrale Saint-Louis de La Rochelle.

The tour continues down Rue des Templiers, where the Order of the Temple once held influence.

In the Cour de La Commanderie, guests learn about the Templars’ maritime trade in salt and wine.

The final stops include the scenic Place de la Caille and the picturesque Maubec Canal, showcasing La Rochelle’s rich maritime heritage.

Exploring the Old Port

Stepping out into La Rochelle’s vibrant Old Port, visitors are immediately captivated by the bustling activity along the quays.

Strolling along the waterfront, they’ll encounter:

• Historic fishing and trading vessels docked at the harbor

• Lively seafood restaurants and cafes serving local delicacies

• Charming boutiques and artisan shops showcasing regional crafts

The Old Port’s timeless charm transports visitors back to the city’s maritime heyday, when Templar knights oversaw the lucrative salt and wine trade.

Exploring this iconic setting provides a tangible connection to La Rochelle’s storied past and the enduring legacy of the Order of the Temple.

Visiting the Grosse Horloge

Next, visitors encounter the iconic Grosse Horloge, La Rochelle’s renowned 14th-century clock tower. This architectural marvel stands tall, a testament to the city’s rich history. As the group approaches, they can’t help but admire the intricate Gothic detailing and the impressive timepiece that has kept the pulse of the city for centuries.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Height | 48 meters |

| Construction | Begun in 1390, completed in 1463 |

| Design | Elaborately decorated with Gothic ornamentation |

| Purpose | Served as a gate and a clock tower |

| Significance | Symbol of La Rochelle’s maritime heritage |

The Grosse Horloge is a must-see attraction, captivating visitors with its timeless elegance and historical significance.

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The Cathédrale Saint-Louis De La Rochelle

As the group moves on from the captivating Grosse Horloge, their eyes are immediately drawn to the commanding presence of the Cathédrale Saint-Louis de La Rochelle.

This magnificent cathedral, dating back to the 14th century, stands as a testament to the city’s religious history:

• Its ornate Gothic architecture, with intricate stone carvings and towering spires, is a sight to behold.

• Inside, the cathedral’s vast, airy interior and stunning stained-glass windows create an atmosphere of reverence and contemplation.

• Visitors can explore the church’s rich history, including its role in the city’s maritime past and its connections to the Order of the Temple.

Discovering Rue Des Templiers

After admiring the grand Cathédrale Saint-Louis, the group now heads towards the historically significant Rue des Templiers.

This narrow, medieval street was once the heart of the Templar presence in La Rochelle. The tour guide points out the architectural remnants of the Templar commandery, including the Cour de la Commanderie, where knights once gathered.

Participants learn about the Templars’ maritime trade in salt and wine, and their influence on the city’s economy and defense.

The Templars’ maritime trading in salt and wine significantly impacted La Rochelle’s economy and defenses.

The walking tour provides a glimpse into La Rochelle’s Templar legacy, bringing the past to life through the streets and buildings that still stand today.

The Cour De La Commanderie

The Cour de la Commanderie stands as a testament to the Templars’ lasting influence in La Rochelle.

This historic courtyard was once the headquarters of the Templar order in the city, serving as a center of their maritime trade and activities.

Visitors can:

• Explore the remains of the Templar’s administrative buildings and structures

• Imagine the bustling scene of Templar knights, sailors, and merchants conducting business in the courtyard

• Marvel at the architectural details that showcase the Templars’ wealth and power during the Middle Ages

This serene space offers a glimpse into the Templars’ once-vibrant presence in the heart of La Rochelle.

Navigating the Maubec Canal

Leaving the tranquil Cour de la Commanderie behind, visitors embark on a journey along the Maubec Canal. This picturesque waterway was once the heart of La Rochelle’s maritime trade, transporting salt and wine to the world.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Canal Length | 1.5 km |

| Construction | 13th century |

| Purpose | Commercial shipping |

| Architecture | Limestone bridges and quays |

| Highlights | Historic warehouses, locks, and passing yachts |

Strolling along the canal, guests gain insights into the city’s Templar legacy and its thriving commercial past. The Maubec Canal provides a serene respite, allowing visitors to step back in time and imagine the bustling maritime activities that once defined La Rochelle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is allowed during the tour. The tour details mention that visitors should bring a camera, so participants are free to take photos throughout the walking exploration of the historical sites.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Pets are generally not allowed on walking tours, as they can be disruptive to the group and the guide’s ability to provide an informative experience. It’s best to leave your furry friends at home for this tour.

Is the Tour Guide Available to Answer Additional Questions?

Yes, the tour guide is available to answer additional questions during the tour. They can provide more details about the history, landmarks, and Templar influence in La Rochelle to enhance the walking tour experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

No, there’s no option to extend the tour duration. The La Rochelle: Templars Walking Tour is fixed at 75 minutes. However, you can always ask the tour guide additional questions during the tour to dive deeper into the Templar history and maritime trade of La Rochelle.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

Unfortunately, the tour does not offer any discounts for seniors or students. The price is fixed at $163.13 per group (up to 5 participants) and there are no special rates available.

The Wrap Up

The Templars Walking Tour in La Rochelle offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s rich history. From the picturesque Old Port to the iconic landmarks, the tour immerses visitors in the Templar legacy, showcasing the maritime heritage and vibrant past of this captivating French city. It’s a must-experience for those seeking to uncover the hidden stories that have shaped La Rochelle’s unique character.

You can check availability for your dates here: