Dinan Gate

Taking a complete loop around the citadel allows you to uncover the secrets of the nine fortified Gates. The initial rampart walls of Saint-Malo were constructed during the 12th century by Jean de Chatillon, often hailed as the city’s founding father. As the city expanded over the centuries, its walls had to grow with it, leading to the reconstruction of ramparts with new bastions. Today, the surrounding wall is 1,754 meters long and was constructed by none other than Louis XIV’s architect, following plans drawn up by Vauban. Now, you’re standing in front of Dinan Gate. This gate was once known as the Gate of the Navy, whose offices were located nearby. It was pierced through in 1714, with builders resorting to dynamite to break through the tough granite stones of the original wall.