Nantes, a historic city on the Loire River in northern France, has a rich cultural history as an industrial center and port. It is home to the beautiful, restored, and modern Chateau des Ducs de Breton, which lies on the site where the Duke of Brittany once lived. The castle is a prominent local history museum with video exhibits, and a three-mile walking pathway along its four ramparts leading up to its walls. The Chateau de Nantes is also famous for being the location where writer Andree Putman wrote her famous novel, “Phenomena.” Tourist attractions in Nantes include the Nantes Cathedral, the Musée Saint- Baptist de l’Agen, the Musée de Nantes, and the St. Honorat Cathedral.
Nantes Cathedral, or Neu-en-Provence Cathedral, as it is commonly called, is one of the most striking features of this ancient city-state. Constructed in the thirteenth century, the imposing Gothic structure was constructed during the feudal period in an attempt to fortify the city against its neighbors, who claimed the region for granted. Today, the imposing edifice is open to the public, and is frequented by a large number of historians, monks, and collectors interested in the rich heritage of Nantes. A recently renovated staircase leading to the cathedral’s main prayer room was recently opened to the public, and recently a series of guided tours of the restorative complex were arranged by the French government to help preserve the history and culture of Nantes.
Another important landmark of Nantes is its fabulous castle, which sits on a fabulous hilltop overlooking the famous river Beaute. The Beaute Castle (which was known as the safest castle in Europe during the Middle Ages) was home to one of the most feared kings in Europe during the fourteenth century. Today, visitors can step into the castle to take in its fascinating interior, and enjoy the beautiful gardens and courtyards as well. A popular activity that many people enjoy while touring Nantes is strolling down the Beaute River, which flows through the center of town.
The third most important historic place in Nantes is the Champs Elysees, or Royal Palace of Justice, which is situated on a grand boulevarded square in the center of the city. Considered as the jewel of the French region, the Palace has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and is protected from excessive development. On a sunny but windy day, you can also enjoy a peaceful walk along the Royal Avenue, which links the Champs Elysees to the ancient Champs Elysees Gardens. This garden is home to some of the most spectacular flowers in the world, including the Orchid, Papaver somniferum and the Rose, which can be seen at all hours of the day. One of the most well-loved activities of Parisian visitors is visiting the gardens; on top of being able to admire the flowers, you can enjoy the many activities that take place here such as enjoying the gardens’ butterfly garden.
The last historical landmark in Nantes is the famous Cathedral, or Catacombs, as it is known by the people of Nantes. Also known as the Cave of the Dead, this catacomb is the deepest and oldest building in Paris. The Catacombs were built during the thirteenth century, and many famous artists such as Guillem de Chamfort, Madame de Sade, and sculptor Albert Bierstadt spent time within the catacombs. The Catacombs contain many priceless paintings, including the famous painting called The Return of the Man from Questerre, which is usually displayed in the chapel of La Croisette where the Catacombs are located. This painting is one of the biggest tourist attractions in Nantes and most people enjoy visiting this famous cathedral.
Tourists will also love the unique experience of visiting the Castle of Nantes. The Castle of Nantes was destroyed in the Middle Ages, but rebuilding and refurbishing took place in the fifteenth century and the Castle was completely rebuilt using original stone and brick. This magnificent edifice is surrounded by a beautiful courtyard, and is surrounded by a lake, along with a fountain, gardens, palaces and a small market square. Many tourists are attracted by the Castle of Nantes because of its medieval appearance. The main battle scene is set inside the castle’s courtyard, which contains a statue of St. Catherine de Medici.