Discover Concarneau, the medieval citadel, the corniche and its typical seaside resort architecture, the ocean… Former stronghold of Brittany, the Citadel bathes its ramparts in the still waters of the Marina and fishing harbor of the city.
Small islet nesled in a cove, the Citadel of Concarneau is dated from 11th century and is the place of birth of the city. The “Ville Close” is surrounded by granite remparts and has nine towers and three gates. Its narrow streets still show the oldest dwellings of the city: half-timbered and gabled houses, or even chapel converted into living spaces… Having become too small, the city soon spread on the nearby shore. Today, the only pedestrian access is the old drawbridge, but visitors can also choose to reach the citadel using the little ferry which connects the Ville Close to the “Passage”, a former fishing district.
During the 19th century, the city developed out of the remparts with the installation of canneries in Concarneau. The fishing harbor had a great impact on the development of the city: sardine fishing, tuna fishing…the many generations of sailors anchored the fishing industry in the genes of Concarneau. Today, coastal fishing, shipbuilding and yachting are the leading activities of the local economy.
For decades, the bay of Concarneau has been a great meeting point for ocean racing skippers. You may even have the chance to have a look at the most prestigious sailboats: “Figaro”, “Imoca”or “Classe 40”, or to attend the start of some famous races, such as the Transat Concarneau/St Barthelemy or the Solo Guy Cotten!
