Rennes is the capital of Brittany. The medieval city was founded on the ruins of a Roman fort. The historic center can boast of buildings from various eras, from the Middle Ages to the early twentieth century.
The Rennes buildings are varied. At the beginning of the 18th century, the northern part of the city was consumed by fire, which consumed, among others, the medieval buildings located there. Traditional frame houses have been preserved in the southern part of Rennes creating the charming atmosphere of the Breton city. The narrow, winding streets meet in picturesque squares that are paved with café tables in the summer.
In the northern part of Rennes, more representative buildings dominate. Neoclassical and late Baroque buildings were built on the site of the houses destroyed in the fire, including the Palace of St. Jerzy, Town Hall and Opera. There is also the most famous 17th century city building, the seat of the Brittany Parliament.
From the early Middle Ages, Rennes was surrounded by massive defensive walls. Some of their towers and huge gates guarding the city's entrance have survived to this day. Outside the old city walls, there is the picturesque Thabor Park, which is the site of numerous cultural events.
