Saint Malo, France

Saint Malo started as an island in the 12th century. The city is built on a granite rock. Today it is connected to the mainland because of shifts in the water around it. Our ship did not dock, so we had to arrive by tender.

The city is still surrounded by thick walls and you can walk totally around it on these ramparts. During WW II, 80% of the city was destroyed. However, the inhabitants saved the stones and were able to reconstruct the old buildings. There are not many new buildings in the city.

The oldest house, was not destroyed in the war and is 7 levels, 3 underground, and has 45 rooms.

Saint Malo was a rich trading port in the 17th century. There were 3 main gates to enter the city. To protect the inhabitants there was a curfew at 10 PM, large Mastiff dogs were set free and no one could enter the city. The area also had a large ship building industry.

Francois Chateaubriand was born in Saint Malo. The explorer Jacques Cartier left from here to find a way to China in 1535. He did not find China, but did discover Canada and colonized near what is now Quebec.

There are about 5 or 6 smaller islands off Saint Malo which all hold forts. This was the defense for the city from the sea. During all the wars with the English over centuries, Saint Malo was never taken.

During our walking tour we were treated to crepes and coffee or cider. This area is well known for cider.

City gates
Creperie
Wall with people walking on the ramparts
Coat of arms of Chateaubriand
From the church where Cartier left for his voyage
Islands with forts
Beach area, islands with forts and our ship anchored off shore
Saint Malo from our ship

During the afternoon, Bob went on a hike. It turned out to be a stroll and he was very disappointed. No photos. He said the walk was along a cliff and pretty, but not what he thought he would be doing. More bus riding than hiking. 😞

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One thought on “Saint Malo, France

  1. Linda

    Thank you..

    Like

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