Vannes and his wife

Vannes and his wife, the most famous residents

The Vannes audio-guided tour stops you at the corner of Rue du Bienheureux-Pierre-René-Rogue and Rue de Noé, before the strange sculpture of Vannes and his wife. Two granite busts depict a man and a woman with round, jovial faces, now the emblem of the historic centre.

A shop sign turned legend

It was probably a shop sign meant to attract customers, likely that of a small store. This good-natured couple, with their hands missing, is now the most famous in the city. The origin of the name Monsieur and Madame Vannes is unknown: the most plausible theory mentions a certain Monsieur Vennes who is said to have lived in the area. The polychrome stone sign has come down through the centuries.

What there is to see

Look up at the corner of the house to admire this smiling couple, carved in stone. Their round faces, jovial expression and missing hands add to the mysterious charm of the ensemble. It is one of the most reproduced images of Vannes, a must for a souvenir photo in the heart of the medieval quarter.

Practical information

The sculpture of Vannes and his wife is at the corner of Rue du Bienheureux-Pierre-René-Rogue and Rue de Noé, in the historic centre. Visible from the street, freely and at all hours, it is discovered by looking up at the corner of the house.

What was this sculpture for?

It was probably a shop sign, meant to attract customers. Over time, this couple became the emblem of the historic centre of Vannes.

Where does the name Monsieur and Madame Vannes come from?

Its origin remains uncertain. The most plausible theory mentions a certain Monsieur Vennes who is said to have lived in the area; the name would then have stuck to the sculpture.