SOLEIL ROYAL

The Soleil Royal was a renowned French warship that served as the flagship of the French Navy during the 17th and 18th centuries. The most famous vessel bearing this name was launched in 1693 and was a first-rate ship of the line, boasting 104 guns across three decks. Designed by Blaise Pangalo, it played a significant role in naval battles, including the Battle of Vélez-Málaga in 1704. After being scuttled in 1707 to prevent capture, it was eventually dismantled in 1713. A subsequent ship named Soleil Royal was launched in 1749 as a second-rate ship with 80 guns. It participated in the Battle of Quiberon Bay in 1759, where it ran aground and was set ablaze to prevent capture. The ship's cannons were later recovered by the British Navy. Wikipédia, l'encyclopédie libreThe Soleil Royal name became synonymous with French naval prestige and was used for several ships in the French Navy. Today, models and replicas of the Soleil Royal can be found in maritime museums, serving as a

testament to France's naval heritage.