Médard bridge

You’re about to cross the Steïr, Quimper’s second river. These days, it might seem like a simple, everyday crossing—but centuries ago, it marked a major divide. In the Middle Ages, the Steïr formed the boundary between two distinct zones: the suburb of Terre-au-Duc, under the duke’s authority, and the episcopal city of the bishop, fortified by 1,500 meters of walls. Along this defensive line stood a number of towers and six fortified gates granting access to the city center. The Médard gate was one of them. Protected by a drawbridge and two portcullises, it must have made a powerful impression in its time. Unfortunately, as its military purpose faded and it became an obstacle to circulation, the gate—along with the others—was torn down in the 18th century. Today, the only physical trace of it is a small échauguette, or cylindrical turret, attached to the wall nearby. Of course, its name lives on in the Médard Bridge. If you linger here a moment, you’ll notice something curious: the tide rising and falling beneath you. It’s a small but striking reminder of how deeply Quimper is shaped by its proximity to the Atlantic.