Tour Tanguy

Tower in Brest

Tour Tanguy
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Michel Briand

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

Hours:

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

Price:

Free

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