Parlement of Brittany, Rennes (must see)

During the Old Regime of France, some provinces had more rights than others. The nobles of Brittany were determined to defend their rights, known as the "Brittany freedom." The resistance to royal powers, involving the defense of its institutions and the privileges of the nobility, was widespread. All this ended in 1789 when the Ancien Regime was overthrown. Since 1804, the Parlement has been the Court of Appeals of Rennes.

The Parlement of Brittany is the most important heritage building in the city and one of the symbols of the province's history. It is located in Parlement Square, close to Town Hall Square. Constructed in 1655, it was designed by architect Salomon de Brosse, who also built Luxembourg Palace in Paris. In 1994, fishermen, angered at the price of fish, rioted in the Square. Flares caused a fire on the roof, and the building was seriously damaged.

Five years later, after restoration, the building reopened. The Great Chamber's coffered ceiling had been spared damage by a layer of refractory bricks under the roof. Painted canvases by Noel Coypel adorn the ceiling. The room was designed by Charles Errard, a painter for Louis XIV. A renowned artist of the time, he participated in designing early Versailles.

The Parlement of Brittany was one of the few buildings spared by the Great Fire of 1720. Restorations and renovations have brought back the building's stunning pre-17th-century artwork. Sculpted ceilings, panelings, and allegorical paintings adorn the building throughout. Guided tours are available year-round.