Rennes City Hall stands in the centre of Rennes, the capital of Brittany in western France. It is an 18th-century building designed by Jacques Gabriel, and it still does its original job: it is the administrative heart of the city, where local government is run.
What to see
- The facade: the classical architecture is the building's most striking feature, and it is one of the reasons it appears so often in photographs of the city.
- The ceremonial rooms: the interiors are designed for formal occasions, giving a sense of how the city presents itself to its residents and visitors.
Visiting the area
Because the building is a working civic centre, a visit is best approached as a stop on a walk through the city rather than a visit to a museum. Its position in the centre of Rennes makes it easy to combine with other sights nearby and with the wider old town, where the streets and squares give a good idea of the city's character.
If you are interested in French public architecture or simply want a handsome, photogenic building to add to a day in Brittany, Rennes City Hall is a worthwhile stop. Allow time to look at the facade from more than one angle and to enjoy the square around it.