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The main reason to visit Fougères is to see its magnificent castle, one of the greatest forts in Europe. This small town on the border between Brittany and Normandy also has a lovely medieval quarter and a lively Saturday morning market.



There is a castle in Fougères for over a thousand years, for this site, on a promontory protected by hills and surrounded by swamps, was identified by the Duchy of Brittany as the perfect place to defend its lands from the French. The present castle dates from the twelfth century and consists of three rooms whose walls are dotted by towers: the most impressive is the Torre Mélusine. The castle, where history is brought to life through images and sounds, is a must visit for adults and children and a walk through the ramparts is not to be missed.



The Old Town

The medieval city emerged south of the castle around the Nançon River, whose waters were used by fabric manufacturers, dyers and tanners; tanning was a byproduct of cattle raising, which was a major industry in the surrounding area. The most beautiful and atmospheric part of the old town is the Place du Marchix, which is flanked by half-timbered houses.

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