Dinan – City of Art and History
Dinan undoubtedly deserves its Ville d’Art et d’Histoire – City of Art and History designation for its exceptional historical heritage.
Perched on a hill overlooking the picturesque Rance Valley, the citadel has always been a strategic crossroads. Dinan began as a Gallic oppidum (stronghold), which the Romans expanded. It evolved into a fortress protected by thick wooden palisades, eventually becoming the magnificent fortified city we know today.
Although located in Brittany, Dinan fell under the suzerainty of the Norman lords, creating obvious rivalries. Thus, in 1065, Conan, Count of Brittany, retreated to the fortress and rebelled against William the Conqueror, but, besieged, he was forced to submit. This event is immortalised on a panel of the famous Bayeux Tapestry, where Conan is seen handing over the keys to Dinan to William.
Dinan strengthened its defences when it was elevated to a duchy in 1283. The fortifications were modernised several times during the War of the Breton Succession (1341-1364) and the long conflict of the Hundred Years’ War.
Château de Dinan
The Donjon, or Château de Dinan, is undoubtedly a landmark of the fortifications. Commissioned by Duke John IV of Brittany in 1380, this imposing structure, a testament to the genius of medieval engineers, stands near the Chapel and the Tour de Coetquen (tower) that were built around 1450.
These buildings are accessed through the 13th-century Porte du Guichet. The former chapel of the Dukes of Brittany, now a museum, offers a glimpse into Dinan’s religious heritage. It indeed houses objects from local religious institutions, including a magnificent Renaissance altarpiece, a wooden statue from the nearby Beaulieu Abbey, and a polychrome wooden statue of Sainte-Barbe (Barbara), patron saint of miners and mine clearers.
The Dukes of Brittany once held court in the private loggia, where their armchair and finely sculpted stone fireplace can still be admired.
The Donjon and the Tour Coetquen, which once served as prisons, now house the Dinan History Museum.
This museum offers a journey through the evolution of Dinan, from prehistory to the early 20th century. You can admire a splendid lead reliquary dating from 1557, containing the heart of François de Coetquen, whose son played a crucial role in the restoration of the fortifications.
The more adventurous can climb to the Donjon’s upper platform, which offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the town and the surrounding countryside.
The first floor of the Tour Coetquen houses an exhibition of old photographs of Dinan. The former guardroom, on the lower floor, has been transformed into a crypt and houses an impressive collection of recumbent statues.
Ramparts of Dinan
The medieval citadel of Dinan spreads over 30 hectares and was once protected by an impressive network of fortifications.
The 2,700-meter-long ramparts, fortified with 14 watchtowers (10 of which still stand), as well as 4 massive gates and the imposing Donjon, formed a formidable barrier against potential threats.
Built in the 13th century after Dinan was elevated to the status of a duchy, they were continually improved until the Wars of Religion in the 16th century.
Today, these historic ramparts are listed as Historical Monuments, and you can explore them at your leisure by following the Promenade des Petits Fossés, a circular path with free access.
Circular walk along the ramparts
Exploring the fortifications of Dinan takes you on a journey through time, as each gate and tower has its own story.
Begin at the Porte du Guichet, the current entrance to Château de Dinan, located on Rue du Château.
Just 50 metres away, you’ll find the Porte Saint-Louis, dating back to the 12th century. Pass under the gate to reach Place du Duc Jean IV, where you’ll enjoy a splendid view of the Donjon and the Tour Coetquen.
Rue Thiers marks the site of the next section of the ramparts. Here, you’ll see the paving stones that trace the outline of the old gate and the ramparts that were demolished in 1881.
Continue your walk to discover monuments such as the Tour Julien, the first tower of the northern fortifications, followed by the Tour de Lesquen and the Tour de Beaumanoir, both dating from the 15th century.
The 13th-century Porte Saint-Malo provides access to the old rampart walkway, which leads to the Tour des Governeurs and the Porte Jerzual. Beyond the Jerzual Gate, take Rue du Rempart to reach the next tower.
The route continues with the discovery of the Porte Sainte-Catherine (13th century) and the Poterne du Cardinal (14th-century postern), nestled in the northern corner of the Jardin Anglais. This public park boasts a spectacular view of the viaduct and the Port of Lanvallay below.
Join the Promenade de la Duchesse Anne, which ends on Rue Victor Basch. Then follow Rue Waldeck Rousseau and Rue du Général de Gaulle to find the final section of the rampart.
Here, the restored Tour du Sillon and Tour Longue, as well as the Tour de Penthièvre (15th century), offer a glimpse into Dinan’s past. A short walk away is the Porte Saint-Louis, which takes you back where you started.
Department of Côtes d’Armor
Coordinates: Lat 48.450352 – Long -2.044584
