Last inhabited sea lighthouse in France, Cordouan, majestic maritime sentinel of the Gironde estuary for 400 years, was inscribed this Saturday on the prestigious list of UNESCO world heritage, according to the list published by the international organization .
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The imposing frustoconical tower of light stone, which marks the entrance to the largest estuary in Europe, between Verdon-sur-Mer (Gironde) and Royan (Charente-Maritime), is thus the second lighthouse inscribed on its list by the 'Unesco, after that of La Coruña in Spain.
Maritime heritage
Wanted by Henry III to replace an old English fire tower, built under Henry IV and enhanced under Louis XVI, the lighthouse was inaugurated in 1611.
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The Minister of the Sea Annick Girardin hailed in a press release "
a victory for the French maritime heritage
".
“
But it involves a great responsibility, that of continuing to preserve this exceptional site for future generations
,” she added.
"
After guiding thousands of sailors and their boats, this lighthouse continues to symbolize French genius and has a special place in our national maritime heritage
", also underlined the Minister.
