L'ORIENT, FRANCE

Capital of the Morbihan, Vannes is one of the most visited cities in Brittany. Vannes belongs to the category of Armorican towns created by the Romans in the first century B.C.

Capital of the Morbihan, Vannes is one of the most visited cities in Brittany. Vannes belongs to the category of Armorican towns created by the Romans in the first century B.C. At the end of the third century, the construction of the fortified town with ramparts became necessary and covered a surface area of 10 hectares by the end of the middle ages. Today, nearly 600 metres of towers and bastions, the most majestic of which is the 15th century tower can be seen. We will begin by following our guide for a visit of the walled city and discover the important heritage of half-timbered houses lining the narrow streets. Here we will see the picturesque ‘Place des Lices’ where tilts and tournaments were held in 1532, the year France and Brittany were united under one crown; the old 12th – 14th century marketplace ‘The Cohue’ where, until 1840, fairs were held, which has been beautifully restored and is certainly worth a photo. We will also pass the Henri-IV square which was started in the 13th century and finally completed in the 19th century. We will visit the inside of St Peter’s cathedral built in the Italian renaissance style, which is quite rare in Brittany. Prior to returning to L’Orient we will be given some free time to enjoy on our own all of the other treasures of this delightful city. Shopping in the pedestrian streets where all major French shops can be found, tastings of Breton specialities or visiting the fine arts museum are just a few of the possibilities.

DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2008 CANARIES & MEDITERRANEAN CRUISES