Brittany, France - attractions

Everyone is more or less familiar with such a European country as France. Someone knows it from the novels of A. Dumas, someone - by the famous film comedies of the twentieth century, and someone also on the game of football clubs. Lovers of travel have certainly visited the French coast of the Mediterranean Sea, and romantic people are in the mood to visit the capital of this country - Paris ... This list could be continued indefinitely, but today we will get acquainted with the other side of France, which most tourists, sports fans and cinephiles of our The country has never been interested. This state is divided into administrative units - the regions of France. In this article we will talk about one of them. This territory is little known to Russian tourists, but the French themselves are happy to spend their holidays there. It's about Brittany.

A little bit about the administrative division of France

The regions of France are quite large administrative-territorial entities. They were created more than 40 years ago in order to decentralize political power in the country. The executive power in each region is carried out by the elected council, however it is under the control of a high-ranking official - the prefect. France is divided into 27 parts-regions, 22 of which are in the European part of the country, and five are islands in the waters of three oceans, in addition to the Arctic. In accordance with the Constitution, the regions of France have broad management and influence capabilities. For example, in higher and school education, vocational training and training, research, economics, land use, infrastructure (waterways, railways and highways), in the field of social policy, and so on.

However, it's time to return to our main topic. As it is said in the encyclopedia, Brittany is the northwestern region and the historical region of France, washed from the south by the Bay of Biscay, and from the north by the Channel. The capital of Brittany is the city of Rennes.

Geological information

The historical region of Bretagne (France) lies on the territory of the peninsula of the same name, which extends strongly into the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. This peninsula by geological standards is the oldest piece of land in France. Its coastal line stretching to 3,700 km is very heavily indented by numerous capes, islands and bays. Forming the Brittany Peninsula The Armorican Massif is an ancient shield of the Precambrian period. It is believed that during the split of the continental plates, it was part of West Africa.

Relief

Brittany (France) is characterized by an elevated relief, but not high (its maximum height reaches 107 meters) and fairly flat. The rugged landscape is somewhat reminiscent of Ireland or Scotland. The influence of man over several centuries has transformed the previously very infertile terrain so that the alternation of meadows, fields and other allotments with artificial stripes of bush and forest characteristic of this territory got its own name - "bokazh".

Climatic conditions

The climate in this region is mild, moderate, due to the influence of the warm waters of the Gulf Stream. Summer is warm and early enough. The average temperature in July is +24 ° С. Winter is mild and very humid, however, despite this, precipitation here drops out a little - up to 1000 mm per year. The average temperature in January is +7 ° C. The north-west of France is characterized by strong sea winds, which in the area of the coast can reach considerable strength, and as they penetrate deep into the territory they quickly lose their pressure. It is to combat the elements of local residents and developed a system of famous forest belts Bokazha.

Historical reference

Ancient Armorica, or as the Romans called it, The country by the sea, until the 5th century AD was inhabited by the Celtic tribes, and then by settlers from the British Isles. They gave this region its modern name. In the Middle Ages Brittany was connected with Britain, thanks to the sea route, much stronger than with the mainland part of France. Most modern cities, such as Saint-Lo, Saint-Brieuc or Saint-Malo, were founded by Irish or Welsh missionaries and received names in honor of the ancient saints, who probably can not be found on any lists.

Language and Culture

To this day, the people inhabiting Brittany (France), by their culture and language, are quite different from the population of the rest of this country. At the same time, local residents try in every possible way to emphasize their authenticity both at the domestic level and on the official level. The Breton language, epic, traditions and complex symbolism retain their originality and significance even now, in spite of partial assimilation with French culture. In addition, the region's craving for independence can be clearly seen, for example, in the widespread use of historical and cultural names, in the struggle for the creation of its own domain on the Internet, and even in the creation of the political party Democratic Breton Union. This organization stands for the autonomy of the region. And local festivals and festivals are completely imbued with the traditions of the people more than anywhere else on the territory of France, and they are clearly designed not for tourists, but solely for the revival of their own ancient culture.

Cities of Brittany

France is a very beautiful country, rich in cities and towns, settlements and villages. And all of them are absolutely different from each other, in each of the settlements there is a special zest. Not an exception, and Brittany. Since 1532 its capital is the city of Rennes, located in the middle part of the peninsula, near its very foundation. From here to Paris, only two hours away by high-speed train. The main cities of the region are Brest, Lorient, Vannes, Dinard, Dinan, Quimper, Saint-Malo and Ore. Below in this article we give an overview of the most beautiful settlements of Brittany, which are interesting for their historical and natural attractions. The map of France above will help everyone to decide on a route, following which one can visit all these sites, learn a lot of interesting things and expand their horizons.

North coast of Brittany

1. Dinan. Traveling through Brittany, this port town can not be ignored. For his fortress walls, he carefully preserves the atmosphere of the Middle Ages. Dinan is considered to be one of the most beautiful cities in France. Here you can admire the architecture of old half-timbered houses, piled along cobbled narrow streets, a castle of the fourteenth century, a magnificent stone bridge across the Rans river. All this tells about the very rich past of this town, which thrives through crafts and trade. A lot of souvenir shops offer products of modern masters: goldsmiths on wood, glass blowers, etc.

2. Dinar. Tourist tours to Brittany necessarily include in their list this town, because it is one of the oldest French resorts. Even before the middle of the XIX century it was a simple fishing village, until the place attracted the English aristocracy. And here, like mushrooms after the rain, the villas of the British lords who spent the summer season here began to grow up, admiring the extraordinary view of the sea bay and enjoying a soft microclimate. Vegetation here strongly resembles the Mediterranean, and the town itself keeps the former bourgeois atmosphere. Beautiful ancient forks make up the architectural landmark of Dinard. There are golf courses, a casino and a huge space for lovers of sailing.

3. Saint-Malo. This modern resort, fanned by the glory of the corsairs, is definitely worth a visit for connoisseurs of surfing and sailing. Huge waves and winds are attractive both for surfers and for those who want to simply admire the fantastic view of the Atlantic Ocean from the height of the fortress walls of the old city. Walking around the perimeter of the fortress of Saint-Malo will leave an unforgettable impression in your memory.

4. Brest. This city at all times was associated with the roar of guns and the sea. It was founded to protect the western borders of the country, and during the Second World War, as well as its namesake in Belarus, was almost completely wiped off the face of the earth. However, today, newly rebuilt, it amazes its guests with the beauty of the gardens and the city castle, in which the Admiralty is located.

Inner Brittany

1. Rennes. Visiting Brittany (France), it is impossible not to get acquainted with the capital of the region. First of all, it attracts a diverse culture of life. This is the Museum of Fine Arts, and the famous university, which is a major scientific center, and the theater. While in Rennes, be sure to stroll through its parks and the numerous river embankments that cross the city.

2. Vitre. In this city is located one of the most beautiful castles in France. It reminds children's dreams ... It seems that these are medieval decorations, so it's alive. In addition, the impression is complemented by ancient, but well-preserved cobbled streets, half-timbered houses. As a result, a walk around the city turns into a real journey in time.

3. Josselin. This town is also famous for its castle built during the Renaissance by the Rohan dynasty. By the way, in them still live their descendants. Nevertheless, the object is still open for visiting. In Joslene you can see Gothic churches, old houses, green terraces, outdoor cafes and much more. In addition, a large medieval festival is held regularly here.

South coast

1. Baths. This coastal town is often compared to Cannes. Here you can visit the medieval fortress, the sea harbor, the historical and cultural center with embankments. The settlement impresses with the architecture of old houses of the XV century, a castle and a magnificent garden.

2. Nantes. It is the historical birthplace of Anna Breton, the city of arts. Today, both the old architecture of the patrimonial nest of Breton princes and the super modern palace of justice coexist here. Tourists are invited to visit the museum of Jules Verne, as well as 16 churches and the Cathedral of Peter and Paul.

Brittany, France. Attractions natural

Of course, this region is interesting not only for the above listed architectural monuments, but also for other sights. Visiting Brittany (France in general is famous for its picturesque landscapes and original settlements, but the region we are considering is something special!), Be sure to take the time to get to know these places:

1. The shore of pink granite. It is considered one of the most romantic places in France. It is located between Treberden and Perros-Guirec, its name is due to the granite blocks of pink hue, heaped up on the coast.

2. Ile de Brea is an island off the northern coast of the region. The wonderful scenery of this area attracts many tourists.

3. Karnak stones. This is a widely known "garden" of megalithic stones, which is often compared with Stonehenge.

4. Pampong Forest. In this gloomy forest stretching more than 7 thousand hectares, the Celtic druids used to gather earlier. In addition, it was here that the events described in the tale of King Arthur and the Holy Grail took place.