The city became a very important player in the trade with the Americas, building a noteworthy reputation in the slave, sugar, and fur trades. As a result of several wars (the Seven Years War, the French Revolution, and the Napoleonic wars) La Rochelle eventually lost its important status as trade opportunities decreased with the decline of the French empire.
During the Second World War Germany established a naval base in the old port, which became the set for the film Das Boot, and also scenes from Raiders of the Lost Ark were shot here.
The old port today is lined with restaurants and bars, serving fantastic seafood dishes accompanied by cognac made in the region surrounding the city. Nearby, in Port des Minimes, the area’s most popular beach is found, Plage des Minimes – many shops, restaurants, and bars line this beach, and the parade is a favourite hang-out for tourists and locals alike.
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