Passage Pommeraye

Passage Pommeraye is a three-level shopping arcade in downtown Nantes with a grand central staircase and ornate wall decorations from its original period. The galleries display neoclassical columns, carvings, and stonework that reflect 19th-century craftsmanship.

Construction took place from 1840 to 1843 under architect Jean-Baptiste Buron during a period of economic growth in Nantes. The passage represented the city's modernization of commerce and rising prosperity through its thriving maritime trade.

This covered arcade has long served as a gathering place where locals browse everything from family-run boutiques to contemporary shops. The passage reflects how French cities balance preserving old commercial spaces with adapting to modern shopping habits.

The arcade sits in the city center and is easily reached by public transport with nearby parking options. The shops are distributed across the levels and wide staircases make it simple to move between floors.

The structure cleverly uses natural light through iron and glass windows set into the walls, keeping the galleries bright while preserving the original 19th-century look. This lighting approach was unusually advanced for shopping buildings of that time.

Location: Nantes

Inception: 1843

Architects: Jean-Baptiste Buron

Architectural style: Neoclassical architecture

Accessibility: Wheelchair limited access

Part of: réseau viaire de Nantes

Address: 20 Pass. Pommeraye, 44000 Nantes, France

Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 08:00-20:00; Sunday 09:00-19:00

Website: http://passagepommeraye.fr

GPS coordinates: 47.21333,-1.55972

Latest update: December 20, 2025 12:38