Vannes Centre Historique, Medieval old town in Vannes, France
Vannes Centre Historique is a walled old town with narrow streets containing around 170 preserved timber-framed houses and a Gothic cathedral at its core. Stone ramparts encircle the district, creating a clearly defined medieval area.
Roman troops established a fortified settlement called Darioritum in the 3rd century at this location, which later developed into the capital of Morbihan department. From this early military outpost emerged the city that exists today.
La Cohue, a former medieval marketplace and ducal palace, now houses the Fine Arts Museum with rotating exhibitions. Visitors can experience contemporary and historical artworks within an authentic historic building.
The Saint-Vincent Gate at the northern harbor edge offers direct entry to the old town's shopping streets and traditional Breton restaurants. This entrance is easy to find and marks the beginning of the exploration area.
Two granite sculptures called 'Vannes and his Wife' stand at the intersection of rue Bienheureux-Pierre-René-Rogue and rue Noé, serving as a traditional meeting point. Visitors often use these figures to orient themselves when exploring.
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