Brest Castle

Before you is the Brest Castle, an iconic landmark of Brest and Brittany in general, and a testament to the city’s power in medieval times. It was built on top of the Gallo-Roman ramparts dating back to the 3rd century. The edifice as we see it today is the work of Vauban, King Louis XIV’s architect, who decided to remodel it in the 17th century. It is the oldest surviving structure in Brest; it was damaged during World War II, but has been fully restored to its former glory. It is also the world’s oldest military castle still in use. So, it’s impossible to visit the entire castle, since part of it is still a military zone. It does, however, house part of the National Maritime Museum, which exhibits a collection of ship models, paintings and sculptures retracing the history of the Brest Arsenal and the military activities of the time. History buffs, this one is for you! Come and visit one of the most powerful castles of the Middle Ages!