Cordouan Lighthouse Museum & Lighthouses and Beacons Museum

The Cordouan Lighthouse and Lighthouses and Beacons Museum: A Journey into the Heart of Maritime Heritage

Located in Verdon-sur-Mer within the Grave Lighthouse, near the mouth of the Gironde River, the Cordouan Lighthouse and Lighthouses & Buoys Museum invites you on a fascinating journey into the history of maritime navigation. This museum is dedicated to the Cordouan Lighthouse, the oldest lighthouse in France still in operation and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2021. Through five exhibition halls, discover the evolution of navigation techniques and the equipment used to ensure the safety of sailors in one of Europe’s largest estuaries.


A tribute to the “King of Lighthouses,” Cordouan
The Cordouan Lighthouse, a true masterpiece of maritime architecture, takes center stage in this museum. Thanks to an interactive 3D animation, visitors can explore the lighthouse through the ages, from its construction in 1611 to the present day. This immersive experience will reveal the secrets of this exceptional monument, considered the “King of Lighthouses” for its majesty and its pivotal role in the history of lighthouses in France.
A Journey to Discover the Lighthouses of the Gironde
The museum also takes you on a journey to discover the other iconic lighthouses of the Gironde, tracing their history and evolution over the centuries. You’ll find a unique collection of equipment used by the Lighthouse and Beacon Service, ranging from antique instruments to modern technologies, which have helped guide sailors through the often-turbulent waters of the estuary.


Scale models, authentic equipment, and the “Matelier” patrol boat
The exhibition halls house an impressive collection of lighthouse scale models, as well as authentic equipment used for their maintenance and for navigation. Among the most iconic pieces, you can admire the “Matelier” patrol boat, which transported the Cordouan lighthouse keepers to and from their posts from 1962 to 2006. Displayed in the museum’s garden, this patrol boat is a valuable testament to the daily lives of the keepers and the lighthouse’s importance to maritime safety.


A Panoramic View and an Orientation Chart
At the top of the museum, the panoramic gallery offers a breathtaking view of the Gironde estuary and its surroundings. With the help of an orientation map, you can locate the region’s main monuments and tourist sites, from the Charente coast to the mouth of the estuary, including the Atlantic beaches and the surrounding islands. This incredible vantage point provides a better understanding of the strategic importance of lighthouses in this complex maritime area.


Interactive Activities and Educational Experiences
The Cordouan Lighthouse Museum also offers interactive activities that will delight visitors of all ages. One of the main attractions is a 3D reconstruction of the Cordouan Lighthouse through the ages, allowing visitors to see the monument’s architectural evolution. Interactive kiosks and informational panels also provide insights into the various lighting systems, Fresnel lenses, and the challenges engineers have faced over the centuries.


A destination for lovers of maritime history and heritage
This museum is a true treasure trove for enthusiasts of maritime heritage. Whether you’re passionate about the history of lighthouses, curious to learn more about maritime professions, or simply looking for an enriching family outing, the Cordouan Lighthouse and Lighthouses and Beacons Museum offers a unique experience in the heart of Verdon-sur-Mer.