Rennes, France, is the administrative capital of the French department of Ille-et-Vilaine. Before the French Revolution, prior to the integration of the Duchy of Brittany into the Kingdom of France, Rennes was the capital of the duchy, with the other historical capitals of Brittany's Ducal period being Nantes and Vannes. It has a long history ...

After the destructive fire of 1720, the medieval wooden center of the city was partially rebuilt in stone. Remaining mostly rural until the Second World War, Rennes underwent significant development in the twentieth century.

Feb 2, 2022 · But the visitor’s mind is easily drawn to imagine how life might have been during medieval times thanks to these vibrant buildings that have survived more than six centuries. Follow this guide through Rennes historic centre and discover the city’s stunning medieval streets full of architectural gems.

Dec 22, 2021 · One thing that is really striking in Rennes is the city’s rich medieval heritage. Half-timbered houses dating anywhere from the 15th to the 18th century still stand proudly, although askew, in many streets of Rennes.

Jan 26, 2025 · Rennes was bombed and partly destroyed in World War II. The city was almost completely destroyed by fire in 1720 and was rebuilt from a plan that gave it wide, regular streets and a main axis running east and west along the canalized Vilaine.

Aug 13, 2024 · The best things to do in Rennes, France Walk around medieval Rennes. Head straight for Rennes Centre, where you’ll find the medieval but vibrant heart of the city. Wander down the Rue du Champ-Jacquet with its centuries-old, slanted town houses, recognizable for their distinctive herringbone design.

Explore Rennes, the vibrant capital of Brittany, renowned for its medieval architecture, beautiful gardens, and rich cultural heritage. Don't miss the Musée des Beaux-Arts and Champs Libres for an unforgettable journey through art and history.

Medieval Rennes and the cathedral The most interesting part of your visit is the medieval centre of Rennes. Unfortunately a large part of this was destroyed by a fire in 1720 that raged for a week and burned down more than 900 houses and buildings.

Nichée en plein cœur des Marches de Bretagne, la Destination Rennes et les Portes de Bretagne offre mille et une façons de vivre une expérience médiévale. Remontez le temps et partez à la rencontre de monuments vieux de presque 1000 ans, témoins des combats chevaleresques qui feront ressortir votre âme d’enfant.

From the late Middle Ages through to the end of the Ancien Régime (the period of Bourbon rule in France, from 1589 to 1789), a multitude of half-timbered houses were built in Brittany, and particularly in Rennes.