

As Public Property, Cordouan lighthouse’s management was transferred to the mixte union for the Sustainable Development of Gironde Estuary (SMIDDEST) in 2010. The Public services, in particular those of the Ministries of the Sea and Culture, have always sought to conserve the monument and its use in marine signaling.
SMIDDEST directly monitors the monument, welcomes the public, promotes the site, preserves the plateau and implements cultural projects.
The candidacy of the Cordouan lighthouse to the prestigious list of the World Heritage of Humanity, requires to ensure a respectful use of the image of the monument in coherence with its values which are: authenticity, innovation, universality and respect for the environment with the principle of sustainable development.
Cordouan is an unusual adventure. On the site and beyond, 400 years of architecture, technological prowess and as many rich emotions mingle.
In order to make your discovery of Cordouan unique, SMIDDEST is engaged in a continuous process of improving the quality of its services.
Many actors are working for the influence of Cordouan. The French State, SMIDDEST, associations, boat operators and inhabitants of the estuary’s shores are all working hand in hand for the King of Lighthouses to shine.