Île de Nantes, Urban district in Nantes, France
Île de Nantes is an urban district on the Loire River formed by two river branches that separate it from the mainland. The area contains residential buildings, cultural institutions, and public spaces that now occupy what was once industrial land.
The island was historically dominated by meadows and industrial facilities where ships were built and metalwork occurred. Large-scale redevelopment beginning in the early 2000s converted these sites into a contemporary mixed-use neighborhood.
The Machines of the Isle draws on the area's shipbuilding heritage by transforming industrial craftsmanship into moving sculptures and theatrical performances. Visitors encounter mechanical creatures that blend artistry with engineering traditions rooted in the island's past.
The district connects to the mainland through multiple bridges and is easily explored on foot or by bicycle. Walking paths and public transit make it simple to navigate between different areas and attractions.
A former banana warehouse called Hangar à Bananes has been repurposed as an entertainment complex with restaurants and exhibition spaces. This reflects how the area reimagines its industrial past into contemporary cultural venues.
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