France Les Sables d'Olonne - Prieuré Saint-Nicolas

Built by the monks of Sainte Croix de Talmont during the 11th century, the priory was plundered during the Wars of Religion, restored by Richelieu, and converted into a fort, a guardhouse and a powder magazine from the late 18th to the late 19th century.
It was completely renovated in 2004.
Overlooking the harbour entrance and protected by two long jetties built in the 18th century, the priory, flanked by seven 18th-century cannons, offers a superb view of the bay.
Next to the Priory stands the Memorial to Those Lost at Sea, a monument dedicated to those lost at sea, created by the mosaic artist Jacques Launois; a work in granite and schist evoking the force of the ocean’s breaking waves. A place of remembrance and reflection for all families who have lost a loved one at sea.