Saint-Vincent Gate

The Saint-Vincent gate, monumental entrance to Vannes

The Vannes audio-guided tour lets you discover the Saint-Vincent gate, which opens onto the old town from Place Gambetta. Behind you, the harbour on the Marle; before you, a fine semicircle of eighteenth-century buildings framing the granite gate, the main entrance to the fortified town.

A gate cut in the seventeenth century

The gate was originally cut into the rampart in the early seventeenth century, then rebuilt at the same time as the buildings around it. Baroque in style and made of dressed granite, it is now a listed historic monument and bears witness to the urban renewal of Vannes in the modern age.

What there is to see

Note the statue of the city's patron saint blessing your entrance and, beneath the niche, the coat of arms of Vannes. On it you recognise the ermine, symbol of Brittany, topped by a crown of three towers representing the fortified town. The arms are flanked by two greyhounds, given by tradition by Francis I during his visit. The gate is crossed to enter the medieval heart.

Practical information

The Saint-Vincent gate stands on Place Gambetta, at the entrance to the old town of Vannes, facing the harbour. It can be crossed freely at all hours and on the level. It is the ideal starting point for a tour of the historic centre.

What does the gate's coat of arms represent?

It bears the ermine of Brittany topped by a crown of three towers symbolising the fortified town, flanked by two greyhounds tied to the tradition of Francis I's visit.

How old is the gate?

Cut into the rampart in the early seventeenth century, it was rebuilt with the neighbouring buildings and now shows a baroque granite style, listed as a historic monument.