Lorient (La Perrière) lighthouse

Lorient, a picturesque port city in Brittany, France, is home to a remarkable historical monument known as the Tour de la Découverte, or the Discovery Tower. This towering structure, perched on the hill of Faouëdic, offers visitors not only a glimpse into the city's rich maritime history but also breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

The History of the Discovery Tower

The origins of the Discovery Tower date back to the early 18th century. Originally constructed between 1737 and 1744 by the French East India Company, the tower stood at a modest height of 25 meters. Over the years, it underwent several modifications, with additional floors being added until it reached its current height of 36.7 meters by 1748. This elevation allowed watchmen to keep a vigilant eye on the sea, spotting ships from as far as Groix, Belle-Île, and the Glénan Islands.

The tower's history is marked by its resilience and adaptability. After being struck by lightning three times in the 18th century, it was reconstructed by the Royal Navy between 1785 and 1786, based on the designs of Philippe Guillois. During this reconstruction, one of the first lightning rods in Europe, modeled after Benjamin Franklin's design, was installed to protect the tower from future strikes.

In addition to its role as a watchtower, the Discovery Tower also served various other functions. Two windmills were built on the Faouëdic hill to grind flour for the port's workers and ship crews. However, these windmills were rendered inoperative by a storm in 1825, leading to their transformation into living quarters and an observatory. One of the windmills even became a museum dedicated to the history of the French Navy.

Architectural Marvel

The Discovery Tower stands as a testament to the architectural ingenuity of its time. With a base diameter of 8.78 meters, the tower is constructed primarily of rubble stone, with granite ashlar used for decorative elements such as horizontal bands that adorn its façade. The interior spiral staircase, consisting of 216 granite steps, leads to the lantern room at the top, accessible via an eight-rung ladder.

In 1891, a metal framework and dome were added to the tower, enhancing its functionality as a signal tower. Although the dome was destroyed during World War II, a new lantern was installed in 1949. This lantern, however, succumbed to rust over the years and was removed in 2018. In 2020, a new metal structure, modeled after the 1891 design, was erected, complete with a black thermolacquered stainless steel time ball installed in 2021. This time ball replicates the original mechanism used to signal solar noon to the port's fleet.

Exploring the Discovery Tower

Visitors to the Discovery Tower are in for a treat, as the site offers a unique blend of history, architecture, and stunning views. As you ascend the spiral staircase, you can't help but marvel at the craftsmanship that went into constructing this enduring monument. Each step brings you closer to the top, where the lantern room awaits with its panoramic vistas.

From the top of the tower, you can gaze out over the city of Lorient, the bustling port, and the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. On a clear day, the view stretches far and wide, offering a glimpse of the surrounding islands and the rugged Breton coastline. This vantage point not only provides a visual feast but also a sense of connection to the maritime heritage that has shaped Lorient over the centuries.

The Role of the Discovery Tower

Throughout its history, the Discovery Tower has played a crucial role in the defense and communication networks of Lorient. Initially built as a lookout tower to monitor incoming ships and potential threats, it later evolved into a signal tower equipped with a projector for optical communication between maritime establishments in the city. The tower also housed a time ball system, which relayed the official time to the military fleet, calculated by a marine observatory.

In the early 20th century, the Discovery Tower became a receiver for wireless telegraphy, capable of relaying information from the Eiffel Tower in Paris. These various adaptations highlight the tower's importance in ensuring the safety and efficiency of Lorient's maritime operations.

A Modern-Day Landmark

Today, the Discovery Tower stands as a proud symbol of Lorient's rich maritime history and enduring spirit. Since 2008, the tower has been owned by the city of Lorient, ensuring its preservation for future generations. The recent restoration efforts, including the installation of the new lantern and time ball, have breathed new life into this historic monument, making it a must-visit attraction for tourists and locals alike.

In conclusion, the Discovery Tower in Lorient is more than just an architectural marvel; it is a living testament to the city's resilience, innovation, and maritime heritage. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply someone seeking breathtaking views, a visit to the Discovery Tower promises an unforgettable experience. So, when you find yourself in Lorient, be sure to make your way to the top of Faouëdic hill and discover the stories that this remarkable tower has to tell.