House of the Bay of the Marais Poitevin

The House of the Bay of the Marais Poitevin is a museum, heritage, and tourist site located in Esnandes, in the Charente-Maritime department, in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. It is a place that showcases the local environment, the mussel farming heritage, and Romanesque architecture. It is a great place for tourists who are interested in learning about the local culture and history.

History of Mussel Farming

The museum traces the history of mussel farming in the bay, a practice introduced in France in the 13th century by an Irish shipwreck survivor, according to legend. The exhibition emphasizes the bouchot technique, which appeared in the region as early as 1235, making Esnandes the cradle of French mussel farming. This is an interesting aspect for tourists who are interested in the history of local industries.

The Saint-Martin Church

The Saint-Martin church, a Romanesque building from the 12th century, fortified in the 14th century to defend the coasts against English incursions, is a remarkable example of defensive religious architecture. Guided tours allow you to discover its specificities and access an exceptional panorama of the bay. This is a must-see for tourists interested in architecture and history.