Saint-Jacques-de-la-Lande, commune in Ille-et-Vilaine, France
Saint-Jacques-de-la-Lande is a small commune southwest of Rennes in the Ille-et-Vilaine region, spread across flat terrain. The area blends historic village cores with modern residential neighborhoods, featuring a mix of old stone houses and farmsteads alongside contemporary apartment buildings and public spaces such as parks and a media library.
The area was originally covered in large forest and later renamed to reflect its transformation into open grassland. From the 12th century the region was connected to Rennes, but suffered severe destruction during World War II due to bombing near the airport, with military bunkers from that period still visible.
The name comes from Saint James and pilgrimage traditions tied to his veneration. Residents continue to gather at the historic churches and chapels for local events and celebrations, keeping these spaces as centers of community life.
The area is best explored on foot or by bicycle, with accessible sidewalks and parks throughout. The different neighborhoods are spread out, so visitors should allow adequate time and plan which areas they want to see beforehand.
The bedrock consists of schist and sandstone that were extracted for building materials over centuries, leaving behind abandoned gravel pits now filled with water. These lakes have become popular spots for fishing and walking, showing how human activity permanently shaped the landscape.
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