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The Citadel of Château d'Oléron

For history lovers...

A true masterpiece of defensive architecture, the impressive citadel of Château d'Oléron dominates the port and offers an exceptional panorama of the ocean.
 
 
 
Built from 1630 onwards by d'Argencourt, Clerville and then Vauban, and remaining inviolate for three centuries, the citadel was bombed on 17 April 1945.
 
 
 
Thanks to a huge restoration project begun in 1985, the citadel now reveals its ramparts, its triple moat belt, its richly sculpted gates, its arsenal and its chapel housing a monumental staircase.
 
 
 
You may come across the ghosts of Eleanor of Aquitaine, Agrippa d'Aubigné, Henri de Navarre, Richelieu, the Sun King, Vauban and many other famous visitors!
 
 
 
Access to the citadel is free throughout the year. Numerous guided tours are also organised, particularly during the school holidays: traditional tours, educational tours, theatrical evening tours, or even by small train.
 
 
 
The Arsenal building has been elegantly restored to its original form and hosts shows all year round with its 300-seat theatre, as well as seminars and conferences. On the first floor, a large room with a view of the sea can accommodate 300 guests for weddings and receptions.
 
 
 
 
Book your stay on the island of Oléron
The 5 star campsite La Boulinière welcomes you for a short or long stay. Book your outdoor accommodation in Saint-Georges d'Oléron now.
Contact the campsite by email contact@campinglabouliniere or on 05 46 76 69 07 for more information and availability.
 
 
 
Photo credits: Wikimedia Commons © DIMIMIS - © W. SCOT - © DAVITOF