Medieval Cities | Nantes, stronghold of the dukes of Brittany

Before becoming a major French city, Nantes was the capital of a powerful and independent duchy: Brittany.
In the 15th century, the dukes of the Montfort dynasty affirmed their power there by building a prosperous and strategic city, dominated by the spectacular Château des Ducs de Bretagne, at once palace and fortress.

But behind this architectural ambition lay a decisive confrontation: facing the French kings, François II and his daughter Anne de Bretagne sought to preserve the duchy’s independence.
Between political grandeur, urban growth, and the threat of annexation, Nantes became the last stronghold of a kingdom willing to do anything to survive.

From the ramparts of the Château des Ducs to the merchant houses along the Loire, discover how, stone by stone, a city rose to legendary status.