Place Saint-Germain and Église Saint-Germain
Discover Place Saint-Germain in Rennes, home to the historic Église Saint-Germain with its Gothic architecture, stained glass, and antique organs.
Place Saint-Germain is a notable square in Rennes, France, offering a blend of historical and architectural interest. The square is home to the Église Saint-Germain, a Gothic parish church built between the 15th and 17th centuries. The Église Saint-Germain is known for its stunning features, including the oldest stained glass in Rennes and antique organs. The south porch, dating back to the Late Renaissance (1606-1623), is particularly remarkable and was designed by Germain Gaultier, the first architect of the Parliament of Brittany. The church's Gothic architecture and historical artifacts provide a glimpse into the city's rich cultural identity. The Place Saint-Germain, where the church is located, is a serene space that connects to other significant areas in Rennes, such as Place de la Mairie and the Émile Zola Quay. Together, the square and the church offer visitors a chance to explore Rennes' historical and architectural heritage.
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the stained glass windows of Église Saint-Germain.
- Explore the surrounding streets for a taste of Rennes' local atmosphere and architecture.
- Check local listings for occasional organ concerts at Église Saint-Germain.
A brief summary to Pl. Saint-Germain
- Rennes, 35000, FR
Getting There
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Walking
From Place de la Mairie, walk southeast along Rue Saint-Georges, known for its half-timbered houses. Continue onto Rue de Vau Saint-Germain; the Place Saint-Germain and the Église Saint-Germain will be on your right. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. No costs involved.
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Public Transport
Take bus lines C2 or C4 to the Musée Beaux Arts stop. From there, walk northeast on Rue de Vau Saint-Germain for about 2 minutes. The Église Saint-Germain will be on your left. A single bus ticket costs €1.70 and is valid for one hour of unlimited travel.
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Taxi/Ride-share
From the Rennes train station, a taxi or ride-share to Place Saint-Germain typically costs between €8 and €12, depending on traffic and demand. The journey usually takes around 5-10 minutes.
