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Place du Parlement de Bretagne: Rennes' Historic Heart

Discover Rennes' historic Place du Parlement de Bretagne, a vibrant square with stunning architecture and a rich cultural heritage.

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Place du Parlement de Bretagne is a central square in Rennes, France, dominated by the impressive 17th-century Parliament building. It's a vibrant hub surrounded by historic architecture, cafés, and shops, making it a must-see for visitors. The square has a rich history, serving as a royal square and a site of significant events.

A brief summary to Place du Parlement de Bretagne

  • Pl. du Parlement de Bretagne, Rennes, 35000, FR

Local tips

  • Visit during the late afternoon to enjoy the golden hour light illuminating the Parliament building.
  • Explore the side streets around the square for unique shops and boutiques.
  • Check local event listings; the square often hosts markets and cultural events throughout the year.
  • Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the weekend crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Don't miss the nearby cafés for a taste of local Brittany delicacies, like galettes and crepes.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Rennes train station (Gare de Rennes), exit the station and head south on Rue de l'Alma. Continue straight until you reach Place de la République, a large square. From there, take Rue de la Monnaie, which leads directly to Place du Parlement de Bretagne. The walk is approximately 10 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    If you are near a metro station, take Line A towards La Poterie and get off at République station. Exit the station and head west on Place de la République, then follow the walking directions to reach Place du Parlement de Bretagne, a short walk away. A single metro ticket costs €1.70 and is valid for one hour of unlimited travel.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Rennes. A short taxi ride from the Rennes train station (Gare de Rennes) to Place du Parlement de Bretagne typically costs between €7 and €9 and takes about 5 minutes. Ride-sharing services like Uber are also available.

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Discover more about Place du Parlement de Bretagne

Place du Parlement de Bretagne is one of the most emblematic locations in Rennes, situated in the heart of the historic city center. The square is named after the Palais du Parlement de Bretagne, a stunning 17th-century building that once housed the Parliament of Brittany. Today, it serves as the seat of the Court of Appeal. The square was created following a devastating fire in 1720 that destroyed a large part of Rennes. The Parliament building was one of the few structures that survived. The square was designed as a grand royal space to highlight the Parliament building and featured a statue of Louis XIV. Over the years, the square has been known by various names, including Place Louis-le-Grand and Place de l'Égalité. The architecture surrounding the Place du Parlement is notable for its uniformity, with buildings featuring Mansard roofs and ionic-style pilasters. The square is a popular meeting place for locals and tourists alike, with numerous cafés and restaurants offering a place to relax and soak in the atmosphere. The square also hosts various events throughout the year, including markets and cultural exhibitions. In 1994, a fire caused significant damage to the Parliament building. However, it was meticulously restored and reopened in 2004. Today, visitors can take guided tours of the Parliament building to admire its gilded rooms and learn about its history. The Place du Parlement de Bretagne remains a vibrant center of Rennes, blending history, architecture, and modern life.

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