Rue Merciers (Drapers' Street), La Rochelle
Drapers' Street is one of the main shopping arteries of La Rochelle. This pedestrian-friendly street is lined with antique shops, second-hand stores, and fashion boutiques, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors. Every Sunday, the area comes alive with the antique flea market, where unique finds and vintage treasures can be discovered among the bustling stalls. The street's medieval and Renaissance facades add to its charm, creating an ambiance that transports visitors back in time. A stroll along Drapers' Street is not only a shopping experience but also a chance to admire the intricate gargoyles perched above, watching over passersby from the heights of historic buildings.
Historically, Drapers' Street was the center for trading linens and sheets during the Middle Ages. It also hosted the city's bustling food market. The arcades that line the street were constructed by craftsmen and merchants to display their goods, providing shelter for shoppers as they browsed. As early as the 14th century, the municipality enforced a regulation requiring property owners to align their arches uniformly, creating the seamless galleries that still stand today. These arcades remain a defining feature of the street, blending functionality with architectural elegance.
Notably, Drapers' Street is steeped in history tied to La Rochelle's past. Jean Guitton, who served as the mayor during the city's siege by Louis XIII's forces led by Cardinal Richelieu, resided at number 3. Guitton led the city's defense during the grueling siege and ultimately surrendered when the surviving population, reduced to just 5,400 out of 28,000, had exhausted all food supplies. Following his exile in England, he was granted the title of captain in the king's navy by Richelieu. Another point of interest is the house at number 5, which is distinguished by its unique wheat-themed decorations, a nod to the region's agricultural roots.
Historically, Drapers' Street was the center for trading linens and sheets during the Middle Ages. It also hosted the city's bustling food market. The arcades that line the street were constructed by craftsmen and merchants to display their goods, providing shelter for shoppers as they browsed. As early as the 14th century, the municipality enforced a regulation requiring property owners to align their arches uniformly, creating the seamless galleries that still stand today. These arcades remain a defining feature of the street, blending functionality with architectural elegance.
Notably, Drapers' Street is steeped in history tied to La Rochelle's past. Jean Guitton, who served as the mayor during the city's siege by Louis XIII's forces led by Cardinal Richelieu, resided at number 3. Guitton led the city's defense during the grueling siege and ultimately surrendered when the surviving population, reduced to just 5,400 out of 28,000, had exhausted all food supplies. Following his exile in England, he was granted the title of captain in the king's navy by Richelieu. Another point of interest is the house at number 5, which is distinguished by its unique wheat-themed decorations, a nod to the region's agricultural roots.
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Rue Merciers (Drapers' Street) on Map
Sight Name: Rue Merciers (Drapers' Street)
Sight Location: La Rochelle, France (See walking tours in La Rochelle)
Sight Type: Shopping
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: La Rochelle, France (See walking tours in La Rochelle)
Sight Type: Shopping
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in La Rochelle, France
Create Your Own Walk in La Rochelle
Creating your own self-guided walk in La Rochelle is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
La Rochelle Introduction Walking Tour
La Rochelle, tucked along France鈥檚 Atlantic coast, has always marched to the beat of its own drum. What began as a quiet fishing village quickly transformed into a thriving medieval port by the 12th century, trading wine, salt, and fish with anyone who鈥檇 sail close enough. With a sheltered harbor and a strong streak of independence, the city grew rich鈥攁nd just a bit unruly. French kings... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.2 Km or 1.4 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.2 Km or 1.4 Miles