Saint-Philippe Bastion

You’ve reached Saint-Philippe’s bastion, which was constructed during the city’s second redevelopment between 1714 and 1720. This was around the time when Louis XIV passed away, and his nephew, Philippe II of Orleans, nicknamed “the Regent”, took over until Louis XV was of age. Hence, the bastion was named in honor of Philippe II. Its purpose was to protect a newly developed district known as “California,” where affluent shipowners used to live, having amassed wealth through voyages to the Americas. Today, the bastion offers an ideal spot to capture photos of the port and the city of Alet. Located just 3km from Saint-Malo’s center, this picturesque peninsula of Alet holds the historical roots of the city, where the old Gallo-Roman capital used to stand in the first century BC. You can explore landmarks such as the historic Saint-Pierre Cathedral, the region’s oldest place of worship, and the impressive Solidor Tower, a medieval triple keep overlooking the sea. It’s an excursion worth experiencing! Continue your visit until you reach the stairs, taking you outside of the ramparts, then to Dinan’s gate. Go through the gate and exit the fortified city, because we are taking you to the lighthouse!!