National Maritime Museum

Installed in the oldest civilian building in Rochefort, the National Maritime Museum opens the doors to its precious collection of art and history objects testifying to the life of the arsenal, from its founding by Louis XIV until in the 20th century.

Considered the oldest civil building in the town of Rochefort, the Hôtel de Cheusses/Arsenal is a historic monument which houses the rich collections of the National Maritime Museum.

This museum evokes the incredible adventure of the great arsenal of Rochefort wanted by Louis XIV and nicknamed "The Versailles of the seas". Models and models, tools, paintings and sculptures tell the story of the destiny of this experimental arsenal, one of the most creative in the kingdom. All facets of military shipbuilding are explored there.

Embark on a journey through time and discover the stories and anecdotes that still make the Rochefort maritime arsenal famous today.

The site can be discovered on a self-guided tour. Audio guides (French, English, German, Spanish, Dutch) and a game booklet (from 7 years old) will be available to you at reception. Flash events and visits are organized throughout the year; find them on our website musee-marine.fr.
During museum opening hours, a family area is freely accessible on the first floor. You can relax there, read or play with your children. They must remain under the supervision of accompanying persons.

Temporary exhibition 2023-2024: Pierre Loti and the Navy, a photographic exhibition installed outdoors in the courtyard of the museum highlights Julien Viaud (Pierre Loti) as a naval officer and witness to the technical transformations of naval forces in the XNUMXth century.

Continue your discovery of the maritime history of Rochefort with a visit to our second museum, the Former Naval Medical School!