REBUILDING THE HERMIONE
History, Adventures, Challenges
The Hermione, frigate of liberty
Next door to the Corderie Royale they are reconstructing a great 18th century ship, the frigate Hermione in which La Fayette sailed for America. It's quite a challenge because this new Hermione will also cross the ocean…
Brief historical background
In 1780, La Fayette embarked on the Hermione, a frigate built a few months before in Rochefort, to cross the Atlantic and go to the aid of the American rebels fighting for their independence.
In 1997, a new adventure began when reconstruction of the frigate Hermione was started in the former shipyard at Rochefort.
Facts & figures
- Light frigate
- 44.2 metres (L) / 11.24 metres (W)/
- 5.75 metres (D, empty)
- 26x12 lb cannons & 6x6 lb cannons
- 1,500 square metres of canvas
- 1779 start of construction of the first frigate, Hermione
- 1793 the Hermione ran aground off the Loire estuary
- 1997 start of rebuilding the new Hermione
- 2007 rebuilding due to be completed
Practical information
- Unguided or guided tours (in English, German, Spanish by prior arrangement).
- Information and prices: 05 46 87 01 90
- Groups: 05 46 87 81 40