Saint-Michel Gate

You’re standing in front of the Porte Saint-Michel, the grand gateway into Guérande’s medieval old town. As you’ve no doubt noticed, the city is still surrounded by its formidable stone ramparts—one of the best-preserved fortified walls in France, despite having undergone very little restoration over the centuries.

Stretching for 1,300 meters, the fortifications include six towers and four fortified gates that once defended the city. Aseventh tower once stood here but was demolished in 1818. Even so, the ramparts were classified as a Historic Monument in 1877 for their remarkable state of preservation, earning Guérande the nickname “the Carcassonne of the West.” The construction of these mighty walls began in the 14th century under the Duke of Brittany, who financed the project to protect the city. Built between the 14th and 15th centuries, the ramparts were gradually reinforced over time.

It was during this same period that the Porte Saint-Michel was erected. More than just the main entrance to the city, it also served as the governor’s residence. During the French Revolution, it was turned into a prison, and from 1815 to 1954 it housed the Town Hall. What you see today is both a defensive stronghold, with its machicolations, gun ports, and arrow slits, and an elegant building reflecting the city’s prestige at the time.

In the Middle Ages, guards controlled everyone and everything passing through here, levied taxes, and kept watch from the top, which rises 24 meters above the ground. Back then, the gate was equipped with two drawbridges, a portcullis, and a moat for added protection. Above the entrance, you can still see the city’s coat of arms.

Today, the gate is home to the Guérande Museum, where you can explore medieval rooms, exhibitions, scale models, and interactive displays that bring the city’s history to life. The visit also takes you up onto the ramparts for a real step back into the Middle Ages.

There’s even a dedicated trail for children and regular guided tours, so be sure to check the opening days and times before you go.