SaintMartindeRé

Saint-Martin-de-Ré, also written Saint-Martin-de-Re, is a commune on the western coast of France, situated on the Île de Ré in the Charente-Maritime department of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. It serves as the historic port and administrative center of the island and is a gateway for maritime traffic between the island and the mainland, notably La Rochelle.

Geography and urban structure: The town occupies the harbor entrance and is surrounded by fortifications and bastions associated with Vauban. The Citadel and the surrounding ramparts protect the old town and its harbor. The built environment preserves a medieval street plan, with narrow lanes, a central square, and a waterfront lined with houses, shops, and cafes. The island’s landscape also includes beaches, salt marshes, and marine habitats that contribute to tourism and local livelihoods.

History: Saint-Martin-de-Ré developed as a fortified port from the Middle Ages onward. In the 17th century, the fortress system was expanded under the direction of the military engineer Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban, producing the Citadel and associated defensive works that helped secure the Atlantic coast.

Heritage and economy: The fortified ensemble is part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Fortifications of Vauban, recognized for its military architectural style and strategic design. Today, the town relies on tourism, fishing, and oyster farming. It hosts markets and events that reflect island traditions while preserving its historic urban fabric.