Musée national de la Marine (Rochefort)

The Musée national de la Marine (Rochefort) is a branch of the French National Maritime Museum, located in Rochefort, Charente-Maritime, France. It is housed within the Hôtel de Cheusses, a historically significant building that once served as the residence of the naval commander responsible for the Rochefort naval dockyard.

The museum focuses on the history of the Rochefort dockyard, its crucial role in French naval power from the 17th century onwards, and the shipbuilding techniques employed there. Exhibits showcase models of ships constructed in Rochefort, historical artifacts related to naval officers and sailors who served from the port, and information about the industries and crafts associated with the dockyard.

Key collections include detailed scale models illustrating the evolution of shipbuilding, weaponry and navigation tools used by the French Navy, and displays highlighting the lives of those who worked at the dockyard, from admirals to carpenters. Special attention is given to the construction of famous vessels launched from Rochefort, such as the Hermione, a replica of which was built near the museum and is a major tourist attraction in its own right.

The Musée national de la Marine (Rochefort) aims to preserve and present the maritime heritage of Rochefort, illustrating the city's importance as a naval center and its contribution to the history of French maritime exploration and warfare. It provides visitors with insights into the technical innovations, social structures, and historical events that shaped the development of the French Navy.