Brouage, fortified town

Brouage is a fortified citadel nestled in the heart of the marshes of the Charente-Maritime. Brouage has a rich history that has evolved over the centuries. Initially established in the 16th century as a merchant port specializing in the salt trade, Brouage evolved into a strategic military position under the reigns of Henri IV and Richelieu. Over time, its importance waned, giving way to a gradual slumber. However, its link with New France and Samuel de Champlain, its illustrious founder who spent his youth there, marks a significant chapter in its history.

Today, Brouage stands out as one of France's most beautiful villages. It preserves a unique heritage and attracts a large number of visitors every year.

This guide immerses you in the fascinating history of Brouage, exploring its salt-rich origins, its strategic importance in defense and its role in expansion towards Canada. You'll discover the beauty and scale of this citadel, a living testimony to the glorious days of the France.

Salty origins: the beginnings of Brouage

The small citadel of Brouage, now surrounded by marsheshas not always enjoyed this isolation. Initially, it was a seaport linked directly to the Atlantic Ocean by a channel. Over time, however, the channel was progressively obstructed by the inflow of sand from sea currents, profoundly altering the surrounding landscape. Brouage was thus separated from the sea, but this isolation proved to be a source of wealth thanks to the surrounding salt marshes, contributing to its fame and economy.

The salt of power: the salt economy

In the Middle Ages, salt was an invaluable resource, essential for preserving food. Thanks to its climate and geographical position, Brouage was a prime location for the production of high-quality salt, nicknamed "white gold". Salt marshes covering several thousand hectares provided work for numerous salt workers, who collected the salt in basins known as "œillets".

Salt from Brouage was exported all over Europe, in particular to the Nordic countries for salting herring. This flourishing trade propelled Brouage to the status of European salt capital in the 16th century.

A strategic Atlantic port

In addition to its economic importance, Brouage also played a key political and military role. Its port was a nerve center for maritime expeditions, including those to the French colonies in America. The town was also a hotbed of conflict between Catholics and Protestants during the Wars of Religion.

To secure the town and supervise maritime traffic, King Henri IV and Cardinal de Richelieu ordered the erection of majestic fortifications, which today remain the symbol of Brouage. These defenses transformed the citadel into an impenetrable fortress, now nicknamed "the little Carcassonne of the Atlantic".

The transformation into a stronghold: the era of Henri IV and Richelieu

Brouage has played several key roles in French history, evolving from a simple salt trading port to a first-rate military stronghold. During the reigns of Henri IV and Richelieu, the citadel of Brouage was designed and built to ward off assaults and serve as a base for maritime maneuvers. What's more, Brouage found itself at the heart of religious tensions, being a battleground between Catholics and Protestants during the Wars of Religion.

This segment details the transformation of Brouage into a formidable citadel, a reflection of France's brilliant military strategist.

Brouage citadel: design and construction

Italian engineer Giacomo di Castri was the master builder of the citadel at Brouage, proposing an original design in the shape of a seven-pointed star, surrounded by a deep moat. Work began in 1590, at the instigation of Henri IV, who wanted to build a Protestant stronghold in response to Spanish ambitions.

The citadel had a 2.5 km perimeter with four gates and 14 bastions. It housed military installations - barracks, warehouses, powder magazines, forges - as well as civilian structures - covered market, church, chapel, hospital, prison. It was designed to accommodate up to 4,000 residents and 2,000 soldiers.

Brouage in religious conflict: a Protestant stronghold

The site of numerous confrontations during the Wars of Religion, Brouage saw Catholics and Protestants clash, supporting respectively the King and the Prince of Condé. Conquered by the Protestants in 1569 and equipped with rudimentary fortifications, the town was retaken by the Catholics in 1578, becoming a royal city. Protestant attempts at reconquest, notably in 1585 and 1622, were unsuccessful, not least thanks to the intervention of Cardinal de Richelieu, who ensured Brouage's loyalty to the King and the Catholic faith.

Richelieu and the reinforcement of fortifications

A native of the region, Cardinal de Richelieu played a pivotal role in Brouage's development, ordering the amplification of its defenses with the addition of demi-lunes, hornworks, pincers and caponiers. He also initiated the digging of a canal to connect Brouage directly to the sea, optimizing access for ships.

With these improvements, Brouage asserted itself as a nerve center for royal military operations, notably marking the siege of La Rochelle in 1627-1628, which signaled the exhaustion of Protestant resistance. The town also became an important departure point for expeditions to the French colonies in America, including New France and the West Indies.

Brouage, linked to New France and Samuel de Champlain

Brouage is more than just an impressive fortified citadel; it's also the birthplace of an iconic figure who played a major role in Canadian history: Samuel de Champlain. Born around 1570 in Brouage, Champlain is recognized as the founder of Quebec City and considered the father of New France. His immense contribution includes exploring and mapping significant areas of Canadian territory, establishing diplomatic relations with native peoples and defending French interests in the Americas.

This section reveals the profound link between Brouage and New France through the prism of Samuel de Champlain, whose legacy remains indelible on both sides of the Atlantic.

Samuel de Champlain: the son of Brouage

Born into a family of Protestant sailors from Brouage, Samuel de Champlain was introduced to the art of navigation and the spirit of adventure from an early age. His introduction to travel came in 1599, when, accompanying his uncle, the captain of a merchant ship, he set out to discover the world. His travels took him to the West Indies, Mexico, Panama and Colombia. These voyages provided him with the opportunity to bring back stories and sketches, testifying to his great curiosity and powers of observation. These experiences would prove invaluable for his future explorations of Canada.

Brouage's role in the exploration of New France

Brouage was at the heart of the exploration and colonization of New France, the French-controlled territory in North America. The port of Brouage was a departure point for many ships bound for Canada, sailing there for trade, fishing or exploration. In addition, Brouage served as a recruitment center for settlers, soldiers, missionaries and craftsmen destined to populate and develop New France. The town was also the birthplace or stopover for many renowned explorers, including Jean-François de La Rocque de Roberval, Jacques Cartier, Jean de Poutrincourt, and of course, Samuel de Champlain.

From Brouage, founder of Quebec City: Champlain's imprint

Samuel de Champlain remains Brouage's most illustrious explorer. Founder of Quebec City in 1608, which was to become the colony's capital, he also led major expeditions along the St. Lawrence River, among the Great Lakes, on Hudson Bay and in New England. Allying himself with native peoples such as the Hurons, Algonquins and Montagnais, he opposed the Iroquois, allies of the English, valiantly defending French interests in America against the assaults of other European powers. He died in Quebec City in 1635, leaving behind a remarkable cultural and historical legacy. Champlain is revered as the father of New France and founder of the French-Canadian nation. In his honor, a statue and a house in Brouage bear his name. Brouage and Quebec City, linked by destiny since 1984, celebrate the indissoluble bond that links them through Champlain.

Brouage today

Markets:

Weekly market :This market takes place every Friday morning in the church square. You'll find fresh, local produce such as fruit and vegetables, meat, fish, cheese, bread and pastries. You'll also find handicrafts such as jewelry, clothing, decorative items and souvenirs.

Guided tours:

Guided tour of the walled city :This guided tour will introduce you to the village's rich history, fortifications and monuments. The tour lasts around 1h30 and is available in French, English and Spanish.
Guided tour of the marsh :This guided tour introduces you to the flora and fauna of the Poitevin marshes, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The tour lasts around 2 hours and is available by boat or on foot.

Entertainment:

Street shows :Street performances take place throughout the year in Brouage, especially during the summer season. You can see fire-eaters, jugglers, musicians and comedians.
Concerts :Concerts are held regularly in a variety of venues, including Saint-Pierre church and the Maison du Marais.

Festivities:

Classical music festival on the Brouage marshes: between wind and marsh
Sacred Music Festival : This festival takes place every year in June. It offers a rich program of concerts, conferences and exhibitions on the theme of sacred music.
Brouage tells its own story: From May 20 to September 25, 2024, the Citadelle de Brouage is hosting the fun exhibition "Brouage se la raconte". The exhibition, designed for the whole family, offers an interactive and educational journey through the history of this UNESCO World Heritage listed fortified town.
European Heritage Days :These days take place every year in September. They enable visitors to discover Brouage's historic heritage free of charge or at a reduced price.

Websites to find other cultural events:

Brouage Tourist Office : https://www.brouage-tourisme.fr/
Cultural agenda of the town of Brouage : https://www.brouage-tourisme.fr/
Charente-Maritime events calendar : https://www.infiniment-charentes.com/

Conclusion

Brouage, formerly known as a fortified citadel nestling in the heart of the Charente-Maritime marshes, has a rich history marked by many significant events. Born in the 16th century as a thriving salt trading port, the city evolved into a leading military stronghold under the reigns of Henri IV and Richelieu, before experiencing a period of gradual decline through the ages. It also has a significant historical link with New France, thanks to explorer and founder Samuel de Champlain, who spent part of his youth here.

Today, Brouage is recognized as one of France's most picturesque villages, preserving an extraordinary cultural heritage and becoming a magnet for a multitude of visitors. The town offers a fascinating glimpse of France's historic splendor and global influence.

For those interested in exploring Brouage and its historical treasures, we invite you to visit the tourist office website. You'll find information on the guided tours available, as well as various cultural activities and practical tips to make your stay unforgettable. Brouage opens its doors to you for an adventure that promises to be memorable!

FAQ

Who built Brouage?

Jacques de Pons was the founder of Brouage, established in 1555 on a base of marine detritus consisting of pebbles and silt. Initially, Brouage served as a trading port for salt, before becoming a port of war under the Catholic aegis of Henri III.

How to visit Brouage

There are several ways to visit the village: - Join a guided tour offered by the Tourist Office to discover the fascinating history and unique architecture of the citadel. - Explore the ramparts along the covered walkway, offering a magnificent view of the marsh and surrounding islands.

Who was born in Brouage?

Samuel de Champlain, recognized as the father of New France and founder of Quebec City, is the illustrious personality born in Brouage.

Who is the mayor of Marennes 17?

Claude Balloteau is mayor of Marennes 17, elected on October 23, 2020, leading the Marennes-Hiers-Brouage community.