Tour Tanguy
Tower in Brest

The Tour Tanguy is a medieval tower located in Brest, France, overlooking the Penfeld River. Built during the Breton War of Succession in the 14th century, it originally served as a defensive stronghold, facing the Château de Brest. Over the centuries, it changed ownership multiple times, eventually becoming a museum dedicated to the history of Brest.
Today, the Tour Tanguy houses the Musée du Vieux Brest, which features dioramas depicting the city’s past, including scenes from pre-war Brest, naval battles, and daily life in earlier centuries. The museum was established in 1962, with contributions from Jim-E. Sévellec, a local artist who created detailed historical reconstructions.
Visitors can explore 14 dioramas, old maps, photographs, and artifacts that illustrate Brest’s transformation over time. The tower also offers panoramic views of the city and the harbor, making it a fascinating stop for history enthusiasts.
The Tour Tanguy appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Brest!
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Visiting Tour Tanguy
Beginning of April to end of September: every day from 12 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Beginning of October to end of March: every day from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. / closed on Mondays
Free
Nearby Attractions
- Maison de la Fontaine-Brest (0.2) km
Arts Venue in Brest - Musée National de la Marine (0.3) km
Museum in Brest - Château de Brest (0.3) km
Castle in Brest - Téléphérique de Brest (0.4) km
Cable Car in Brest - Musée des Beaux-Arts de Brest (0.5) km
Gallery in Brest - Cours Dajot (0.7) km
Walk in Brest - Port of Brest (1.0) km
Port in Brest - Conservatoire Botanique du Vallon du Stang-Alar (4.3) km
Gardens in Brest - Océanopolis (4.6) km
Aquarium in Brest - Pont de l'Iroise (7.3) km
Bridge in Brest