Nantes, a beautiful city in the Lower Brittany region of central France, has been a port and commercial center for centuries. It is home to the beautiful, restored, and historic Chateau des Ducs du Bretagne, which is where the dukes of Brittany once resided. Today, the castle is an important local history museum with interactive exhibits, and a walking trail atop its high-domed ramparts.
The city of Nantes in Lower Brittany offers many attractions for visitors, including beautiful gardens, historic buildings, and art museums. One of the most interesting areas for tourism in Nantes is its Cathedral, which is located in the heart of town. The cathedral is constructed from several different masonry styles, and sits high on its own, surrounded by an onion dome. Surrounding the pulpit are several smaller buildings containing information about Nantes and its history. This is a great place for a guided tour, or you may wish to investigate the town on your own.
The Cathedral is one of the most striking features of Nantes. There is no other structure that tops it in this regard, and the building takes on a distinctive design that makes it stand out. At the northwest corner of the cathedral is a staircase that takes visitors directly to the top of the nave. Just below this staircase is the Assumption of Mary, which was the last building in the cathedral before it was destroyed in World War II. The Assumption is also the home of the last crusade arch.
Two forty minutes before the first light of the first sun sets in Nantes cathedral, the Assumption of Mary, built in 1330, is illuminated. The statue of the Virgin Mary is especially highlighted during these events. While you are in Nantes during these times, you can also visit Saint Pierre Abbey, which was founded around the same time. This monastery is located meters west of the Assumption of Mary.
Another great way to experience Nantes city is by taking a train ride. The train ride covers many regions of the city, and allows you to take in some interesting sites along the way. Nantes has many interesting stations, including the Museum of Nantes, which has sculptures depicting the city’s history, including the deposition of Charles IV as French king. Just past this museum is the Place Graslin, which is a popular venue for street musicians, and just before this you will arrive at the Duvee de Nantes.
Duvee de Nantes is the second largest beer garden in France. It is also the oldest. On a hot summer’s night the Place Graslin is transformed into a lively music festival, with local bands performing throughout the night. The place holds special concerts throughout the year, and on certain dates the Nantes de l’Art Musee (The Nantes Art Museum) organizes a series of summer concerts at the central point of town, le lieu unique.