Saint Malo Castle

Saint-Malo Castle is a stone fortress positioned at the entrance to the walled old town on France's northern coast. The structure consists of a D-shaped keep, four defensive towers, and substantial walls that protected the medieval settlement from the sea.

Construction of the fortress began in 1424 under Duke John V of Brittany, who incorporated existing 14th-century defenses into the new structure. This project served to establish ducal control over the growing port town and strengthen its strategic position.

The castle stood as a place where the town's connection to maritime life and seafaring traditions were told through its displays. People visiting could understand how this fortress shaped the identity of a harbor community.

The fortress is currently closed for renovation work and will reopen with new displays when construction is complete. Travelers should check ahead before visiting to confirm whether reopening has occurred.

A distinctive section of the fortress is the Quic-en-Groigne Tower, constructed between 1498 and 1501 and named after Queen Anne of Brittany. The name was given as a response to local resistance against ducal authority.

Location: Saint-Malo

Inception: 1424

Address: place Chateaubriand

GPS coordinates: 48.65140,-2.02280

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:44