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Cité Plantagenêt: Le Mans' Medieval Heart

Explore Le Mans' Cité Plantagenêt: a captivating medieval quarter with Roman walls, timbered houses, and royal history.

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Step back in time within the Cité Plantagenêt, the historic heart of Le Mans, France. Wander through cobbled streets lined with half-timbered houses and Renaissance architecture, all encircled by an ancient Roman wall. Dominated by the impressive Saint-Julien Cathedral, this area offers a captivating glimpse into medieval and Renaissance life.

A brief summary to Cité Plantagenêt

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the cobblestone streets.
  • Visit the Saint-Julien Cathedral, a mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture.
  • Explore the area in the evening when the streets are illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere.
  • Check out the geometric friezes on the well-preserved Gallo-Roman wall.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Cité Plantagenêt is best explored on foot due to its narrow, winding cobblestone streets. From the Le Mans train station, walk north along Avenue Charles de Gaulle, then turn left onto Rue Gambetta. Continue straight, following signs for the Cité Plantagenêt. The walk is approximately 20 minutes and leads directly to the heart of the old city.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus and tram lines connect to the Cité Plantagenêt. From the Le Mans train station, take the Tram T1 towards Antarès and get off at the 'Jacobins' stop, which is a short walk to the Cité Plantagenêt. Alternatively, several bus lines (4, 6, 12, 23, 25) stop near the Cité Plantagenêt. A single tram or bus fare is around €1.60.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Le Mans. A taxi ride from the train station to the Cité Plantagenêt typically costs between €8 and €12, depending on traffic. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

Unlock the Best of Cité Plantagenêt

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Discover more about Cité Plantagenêt

The Cité Plantagenêt, also known as Vieux Mans (Old Le Mans), is a mesmerizing journey into the past. This 20-hectare historical quarter, proudly labeled a "City of Art and History," is a treasure trove of medieval and Renaissance architecture. Cobblestone streets wind through a captivating maze of half-timbered houses, Renaissance mansions and the imposing Gallo-Roman wall. Originally a Roman settlement called Vindinum, the area later became the cradle of the Plantagenêt dynasty, who shaped the history of both France and England. Geoffrey Plantagenêt married Matilda in the Saint-Julien Cathedral in 1128, linking the Plantagenets to Le Mans. Their son, Henry, who was born in Le Mans, became King of England in 1154. The Saint-Julien Cathedral, a blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles, stands as one of France's largest cathedrals. The remarkably well-preserved Gallo-Roman wall, dating back to the 3rd and 4th centuries, is a unique feature. Built with red bricks and Roussard stones, the wall stretches for over a kilometer and is adorned with polychrome geometric friezes. Today, the Cité Plantagenêt is a popular filming location for historical movies, offering visitors a unique atmosphere and a chance to step back in time.

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