Porte des Bes: A Gateway to Saint-Malo's Past

4.6 (11)

Discover the historic Porte des Bes in Saint-Malo, a 17th-century gate offering a glimpse into the city's fortified past and architectural grandeur.

Home
France
Saint Malo
Porte des Bes

The Porte des Bes, or Saint-Maurice Gate, is a historic 17th-century fortified gate and a captivating reminder of Saint-Malo's rich history. Its name is believed to come from the Breton word for 'bees,' as hives were once kept in its towers.

A brief summary to Porte des Bes

Rue des Bès, Saint-Malo, 35400, FR
Click to display

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Porte des Bes.

Take a walk along the ramparts for stunning views of the coastline and fortified city.
Visit during low tide to explore nearby islands and forts accessible on foot.
Explore the charming Intra-Muros (old town) with its narrow, cobbled streets and historic architecture.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Tour Notre Dame

Tour Notre Dame: A Bastion of History in Saint-Malo

Bidouane Tower

Bidouane Tower: Sentinel of Saint-Malo

Plongeoir de bon secours

Plongeoir de Bon Secours: A Seaside Icon

Getting There

Walking

The Porte des Bes is located within the Intra-Muros (walled city) of Saint-Malo and is easily accessible by foot from anywhere within the old town. From the Saint-Vincent Gate (the main entrance), walk north along the main street, and the Porte des Bes will be on your left. No costs are involved.
Public Transport

If arriving by bus from outside Intra-Muros, the nearest bus stops are located just outside the city walls. From the bus stop, enter the Intra-Muros and follow the walking directions. A single bus ticket costs approximately €2.70.
Taxi

Taxis can drop you off near the main entrance to Intra-Muros. From there, follow the walking directions to reach the Porte des Bes. A short taxi ride from the train station to Intra-Muros will cost approximately €10-€15.

Discover more about Porte des Bes

The Porte des Bes, also known as the Saint-Maurice Gate, stands as a proud testament to Saint-Malo's storied past. Dating back to the 17th century, this impressive structure showcases the architectural prowess and intricate stonework of the era. It is one of the few remaining vestiges of the ancient city walls that once protected Saint-Malo from invaders. The gate's name, 'Porte des Bes,' is believed to have originated from the Breton word 'bes,' meaning 'bees,' a nod to the beehives that were once kept within the gate's towers. Imagine the bustling activity that once filled the cobblestone streets around the gate, with merchants, soldiers, and travelers passing through, drawn to the strategic importance and prosperous port of Saint-Malo. Today, the Porte des Bes continues to captivate visitors with its timeless beauty and historical significance. As you approach the gate, take a moment to appreciate the details of its construction and envision the many historical events it has witnessed. A stroll along the ramparts offers breathtaking views of the fortified buildings and the stunning coastline, making it a must-see destination for history buffs and anyone seeking a glimpse into the past.