The Parliament of Brittany stands in Rennes, the capital of the Brittany region in western France. It is a 17th-century building, and it still serves as a courthouse today, so a visit means stepping into a working place of justice as well as a historic monument.
What to see
The building is known for its baroque architecture and its gilded interiors. Visitors who are interested in period design will find plenty to look at, from the scale of the rooms to the finish of the decoration.
Visiting
Guided tours are the way to get the most from a visit. They explain the building's history and the architectural features that might otherwise pass unnoticed. Because the courthouse remains in use, it is worth checking the current arrangements for tours before you set out.
- Type of visit: a heritage site with a guided tour
- Best suited to: visitors interested in architecture, history and the law
- Location: Rennes, Brittany, France
Rennes itself makes a good base for the day. Pairing the Parliament with a walk through the city centre lets you see another side of Brittany beyond its coastline.