Brittany is a region located in the northwest of France. The history of Brittany dates back to prehistoric times, with evidence of human habitation in the area dating back to the Paleolithic era. The region was later inhabited by Celts, who established a distinct culture and language in the area.
In the 5th century, Brittany was invaded by Germanic tribes, and the region was ruled by various Germanic kingdoms for several centuries. In the 9th century, the Bretons established their own kingdom, which lasted until the 11th century when the region was conquered by the Normans.
During the Middle Ages, Brittany was a center of trade and commerce, and the region was known for its skilled craftsmen and seafaring tradition. The Breton language and culture flourished during this time, with many religious texts and literary works written in the language.
In the 16th century, Brittany became a province of France, and its culture and language were suppressed by the French government. However, the Breton language and culture survived, and in the 20th century, there was a resurgence of interest in Breton culture, with a revival of the language and the establishment of Breton-language schools and cultural institutions.
Today, Brittany is known for its unique cultural heritage, including its music, dance, and festivals, as well as its scenic coastline, historic cities, and culinary traditions.
19 fun and best things to do in Brittany.
- Explore the walled city of Saint-Malo: This historic city is known for its well-preserved ramparts and its association with famous French privateer Jacques Cartier.
- Visit the megaliths of Carnac: This site is home to thousands of prehistoric standing stones and is one of the most important megalithic complexes in the world.
- Walk the coastal path of the GR34: This long-distance hiking trail offers breathtaking views of the Brittany coastline and is a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Admire the Gothic architecture of Rennes Cathedral: This historic cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and is well worth a visit.
- Visit the Château de Fougères: This well-preserved castle is one of the largest in France and offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history.
- Visit the port town of Le Conquet: This charming town is famous for its seafood and is a great place to try some of Brittany’s traditional dishes.
- Explore the castle of Josselin: This stunning castle is located on the banks of the Oust River and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
- Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rennes: This art museum is home to an impressive collection of art from the Renaissance to the modern era.
- Visit the Belle-Île-en-Mer: This beautiful island is a popular destination for tourists and is known for its stunning beaches and picturesque villages.
- Explore the Pointe du Raz: This dramatic headland is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Brittany and offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
- Visit the Écomusée de Saint-Suliac: This open-air museum showcases the traditional way of life in Brittany and is a great way to learn about the region’s history and culture.
- Visit the Château de Combourg: This castle is famous for its association with French writer François-René de Chateaubriand and is a must-visit for literary enthusiasts.
- Walk the ramparts of Dinan: This well-preserved medieval town is home to a stunning collection of ramparts that offer panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
- Visit the Ile d’Ouessant: This remote island is a great place to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and is known for its rugged natural beauty.
- Visit the Musée de la Nef in Paimpol: This museum is dedicated to the history of boatbuilding in Brittany and is a must-visit for anyone interested in maritime history.
- Visit the Château de Rochefort-en-Terre: This castle is one of the best-preserved in Brittany and is a great place to learn about the region’s history and architecture.
- Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Quimper: This art museum is home to a collection of works from the 16th to the 20th centuries and is a must-visit for art lovers.
- Walk the streets of Quimper: This charming city is famous for its well-preserved architecture and is a great place to wander and explore.
- Visit the Parc Botanique de Haute Bretagne: This botanical garden is home to a collection of exotic plants and is a great place to spend a peaceful afternoon.
10 places similar to Brittany and their locations.
- Cornwall, England: This region is located in the southwestern part of England and is known for its rugged coastline and historic fishing villages.
- Galicia, Spain: This region is located in the northwestern part of Spain and is known for its stunning coastline, historic architecture, and unique culture.
- Normandy, France: This region is located in northwestern France and is known for its stunning coastline, historic architecture, and rich cultural heritage.
- Northumberland, England: This region is located in the northeastern part of England and is known for its stunning coastline, historic castles, and rugged landscapes.
- Donegal, Ireland: This region is located in the northwestern part of Ireland and is known for its rugged coastline, rolling hills, and rich cultural heritage.
- Westfjords, Iceland: This region is located in the northwestern part of Iceland and is known for its dramatic landscapes, rugged coastline, and rich cultural heritage.
- Lofoten, Norway: This archipelago is located in the northern part of Norway and is known for its stunning landscapes, rugged coastline, and rich cultural heritage.
- Orkney, Scotland: This archipelago is located in the northern part of Scotland and is known for its stunning landscapes, historic ruins, and rich cultural heritage.
- Asturias, Spain: This region is located in the northern part of Spain and is known for its stunning coastline, rolling hills, and rich cultural heritage.
- The Aran Islands, Ireland: This archipelago is located in the western part of Ireland and is known for its rugged landscapes, historic ruins, and rich cultural heritage.