City walls of Rennes, Medieval fortification in Rennes, France.
The City walls of Rennes are a medieval stone fortification system with multiple gates and towers running through the city center. Sections of this defensive structure remain visible today and are woven into the layout of the city streets.
The walls were built in the 15th century to protect Rennes from military attacks and control access to the city. This fortification system remained central to urban defense for a long period and deeply shaped the city's development.
The Portes Mordelaises served as the main ceremonial gateway for Breton dukes and still shape how visitors experience the city center today. You can sense how this gate once marked the boundary between the city and the world beyond.
The best way to explore the wall sections is on foot, as they are scattered throughout the city center and linked by walking paths. Information panels at various points help you understand the historical features.
The Tour Duchesne is one of the few completely intact towers from the original fortification and stands at a strategically important corner. This tower gives a rare sense of the original height and strength of the entire defense system.
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