Tour du Chesne, Medieval fortified tower in Rennes, France
The Tour du Chesne is a cylindrical stone structure with distinctive defensive features including machicolations at its top and a reinforced sloping base built into the city walls. Its solid stone construction and fortified design reflect the military architecture of the 15th century.
Built in 1444 as part of Rennes' defensive network, the tower evolved during the 16th century from a military fortification into a detention facility. Prisoners were lowered into its depths through a trapdoor mechanism powered by pulleys.
The name comes from Jehan du Chesne, a medieval gatekeeper who held significant authority over the city's main entrance. Today it stands as a tangible link to Rennes' administrative past.
The tower is located in Square Hyacinthe-Lorette surrounded by remnants of the original Gallo-Roman walls. Visitors can view it easily from street level within the public square.
From its construction until 1680, the tower hosted an annual archery competition called papegaut where victors received tax exemptions and collection rights. This made winning the contest one of the most sought-after honors in the medieval city.
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