November 6, 1664. The day the “Moon” sank with 800 men on board

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PODCAST. The first attempt to conquer North Africa was made by Louis XIV. The landing turns tragic with the sinking of the “Moon”.

Par Frédéric Lewino et Gwendoline Dos Santos

Published on 06/11/2019 at 00:30
– Modified 06/11/2022 at 00:30

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With rage in his heart, François de Livenne, commander of Verdille, orders his crew to weigh anchor. Although his ship is leaking everywhere, it is impossible to disobey the government of Provence. The three-master must leave the port of Toulon for the islands of Hyères. With the storm rising, shipwreck was guaranteed and the death sentence for the 800 men on board (350 sailors and 450 soldiers). The day before, the shipwright sent by the local authorities dared to claim that the Lune was still able to circumnavigate the globe. It’s incomprehensible ! Come what may.

On board the Lune, General de la Guillotière, who commands the troops, does not understand Verdille’s concerns. Didn’t the ship just cross the Mediterranean? Why couldn’t he…

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