Tour du Chesne, Medieval fortified tower in Rennes, France
The Tour du Chesne stands as a cylindrical stone tower with visible machicolations at its crown and a sloping base within the city walls.
Built in 1444 as part of the city fortifications, the tower received its name from Jehan du Chesne, the grand gatekeeper of Rennes in 1473.
During the 16th century, the tower transformed from a defensive structure into a prison, where inmates were lowered through a trapdoor using a pulley system.
The tower, purchased by Rennes Metropole in March 2023, sits within Square Hyacinthe-Lorette alongside remnants of the original Gallo-Roman walls.
From its construction until 1680, the tower hosted an annual archery competition called papegaut, where winners gained tax privileges and collection rights.
Location: Rennes
Part of: City walls of Rennes
GPS coordinates: 48.11120,-1.68524
Latest update: June 23, 2025 10:00
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Immeuble, 4-6 rue de la Psalette
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Square Hyacinthe Lorette
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Retable anversois de la cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Rennes
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Quai Saint-Cast
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