Hôtel de Ville, Vannes

Historic Building in Vannes

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Mairedevannes

The Hôtel de Ville de Vannes stands as a prominent example of 19th-century civic architecture in Brittany. Situated on Place Maurice-Marchais, this Renaissance Revival-style building was constructed between 1880 and 1886, replacing a dilapidated medieval town hall. Designed by local architect Amand Charrier, the new edifice was envisioned to reflect the republican ideals of the time and to serve as a symbol of modern governance.

The façade of the Hôtel de Ville is richly adorned, featuring Corinthian columns, ornate pediments, and sculpted busts of notable figures such as René Descartes and Mirabeau. A central clock, flanked by caryatids and surmounted by a segmental pediment, adds to the building’s grandeur. Behind the clock rises a 37-meter-high belfry, reminiscent of traditional civic towers. The interior houses several significant rooms, including the Grand Staircase, the Salle du Conseil (Council Chamber), and the Salle des Mariages (Wedding Room), all showcasing intricate decorative work.

In front of the town hall stands an equestrian statue of Arthur III, Duke of Brittany, unveiled in 1905. Arthur III, Duke of Brittany (1393–1458), was a major French military leader during the later stages of the Hundred Years’ War and a prominent figure in Breton history.

Born as Arthur de Richemont, he was the youngest son of Duke John IV of Brittany and Joan of Navarre. Early in his life, he held the title Count of Richemont, and later Constable of France (appointed in 1425), effectively making him the kingdom’s highest military commander. His leadership was crucial in helping France recover from English domination, particularly after the disastrous early phases of the war.

Arthur played a key role in the campaigns that led to the French resurgence, including supporting Joan of Arc and working to restore the authority of King Charles VII. He was known for reforming and strengthening the French army, laying the groundwork for France’s final victories.

In 1457, he became Duke of Brittany as Arthur III, but he ruled for less than a year before dying in 1458. Despite his short reign as duke, his reputation as a military reformer and national defender remained influential in both Breton and French memory. He had no children, and after his death, the ducal title passed to his nephew, Francis II.

The Hôtel de Ville, Vannes appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Vannes!

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