Vannes and his wife

At the corner of Bienheureux-Pierre-René-Rogue Street and Noé Street stands this strange sculpture of Vannes and his wife! These two granite busts represent a man and a woman with round, cheerful faces. This was probably a sign to attract customers, most likely for a shop.

This couple of cheerful people, whose hands have been amputated, are now the most famous inhabitants of Vannes! We don’t know where the name Mr and Mrs Vannes came from. The most plausible theory is that a Mr Vennes once lived in the area.

Anyway, those who had the idea of carving themselves on this house would surely never have imagined that, centuries later, they would become the emblem of their town! When it comes to unexpected posterity, it’s the best we’ve seen! On the other side of the street, you’ll find the former Brittany Parliament building called Château Gaillard. This former 15th-century town house has now been converted into a museum devoted to the city’s history and archaeology.

Unfortunately, you won’t be able to visit it today, as the museum is closed for renovation work. Now, I’ll let you bid a final farewell to Mr Vannes and his wife, then head straight on to our next point of interest.