Tour Solidor

Museum and Tower in Saint-Malo

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Pline

The Tour Solidor is a striking medieval fortress located at the mouth of the Rance River in the Saint-Servan district of Saint-Malo. Built between 1369 and 1382 by Duke John IV of Brittany, it was designed to control access to the river and reinforce the region’s defenses. The tower consists of three interconnected round towers, forming a powerful stronghold that once played a key role in maritime surveillance.

Over the centuries, the Tour Solidor has served various purposes, including as a prison during the French Revolution and later as a customs post regulating trade along the Rance. In the 20th century, it was repurposed as the Musée International du Long-Cours Cap-Hornier, dedicated to the history of sailors who navigated the treacherous waters around Cape Horn. The museum housed fascinating maritime artifacts, ship models, and navigational instruments.

Today, the tower remains an iconic landmark, offering visitors breathtaking views of the Rance estuary and the surrounding coastline. Its imposing stone structure and historical significance make it a must-visit site for those exploring Saint-Malo’s rich maritime heritage. Whether admired for its architecture or its role in Brittany’s naval history, the Tour Solidor stands as a testament to the city’s enduring connection to the sea.

The Tour Solidor appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Saint-Malo!

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