Chateau des Ducs de Bretagne

Both the Cathedral of St. Pierre and the Chateau des ducs de Bretagne share the title of being the most significant historic building in the city of Nantes, which is known for its rich history. 

THINGS TO DO:

• Enlighten your mind about the historical stature of the site:

It was constructed in the late 15th century by Francois II, the last Duke of Brittany, and later by his daughter, Anne of Brittany, who served as Queen of France on two separate occasions. The history of this castle spans over 600 years, and it features a large home complete with ornate facades and loggias that date back to the Renaissance period. Visitors walk a trail through the monument's various incarnations throughout the years to learn about its internal design and 1,150-item collection. The topic chosen to choreograph the conversation between the monument and the museum's artefacts is Nantes and its history. The history of Brittany as a dukedom, the history of the Atlantic Slave Trade and of colonial America, the Loire and its region, urban growth, port activity, industrial history, the two World Wars, and social movements are among the topics covered. All of them continue to be relevant today.

• Embrace art and architectural styles rendered here: 

On the side facing the city, it is a stronghold that has a parapet that is 1,650 feet (500 metres) long and is interrupted by seven towers that are connected by curtain walls. On the side that faces the courtyard, it provides shelter for an elegant ducal residence that dates back to the 15th century and was built of tufa in the Flamboyant Gothic style. It also displays the earliest signs of Renaissance inspiration. In addition, it houses other buildings that date back to the 16th and 18th centuries. The roughness of the external walls, which are formed of granite blocks that are divided by schist foundations, creates an interesting contrast with the refined whiteness and sculpted elegance of these buildings.

• Feel and experience the medical times here:

You are cordially welcome to come to this location in order to take some time for yourself and take part in one of the numerous interesting cultural activities that are held here.The Museum of the History of Nantes attracts 270,000 people a year thanks to its vibrant cultural programme. This is in large part facilitated by its exhibitions.