Everyone is more or less familiar with such a European country as France. Someone knows her from the novels of A. Dumas, someone from the famous comedies of the 20th century, and someone from the game of football clubs. Travel lovers have probably visited the French Mediterranean coast, and romantic-minded people dream of visiting 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 moviegoers of our country will never was not interested. This state is divided into administrative units - 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. We are talking about Brittany.
A little about the administrative division of France
The regions of France are quite large administrative-territorial entities. They were created more than 40 years ago with the aim of decentralizing political power in the country. Executive power in each region is exercised by an elected council, but is under the control of a high-ranking official - the prefect. FranceIt 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 a wide range of control and influence. For example, in higher and school education, vocational training and education, scientific research, economics, land use, infrastructure (waterways, railways and roads), social policy, etc.
However, it's time to return to our main topic. As stated in the encyclopedia, Brittany is a northwestern region and a historical region of France, washed from the south by the Bay of Biscay, and from the north by the English Channel. The capital of Brittany is the city of Rennes.
Geological reference
The historical region of Bretagne (France) lies on the territory of the peninsula of the same name, which strongly protrudes into the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. This peninsula, by geological standards, is the oldest piece of land in France. Its coastline, up to 3700 km long, is very strongly 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 at the time of the split of the continental plates, it was part of West Africa.
Relief
Brittany (France) is characterized by an elevated relief, but low (its maximum height reaches 107 meters) and fairly flat. The landscape, cut by valleys and rivers, is somewhat reminiscent of Ireland or Scotland. Human influence behindseveral centuries so transformed a previously very infertile area that the alternation of meadows, fields and other allotments with artificial stripes of shrubs and forests, characteristic of this territory, received its own name - “bocage”.
Climatic conditions
The climate in this region is mild, temperate, due to the influence of the warm waters of the Gulf Stream. Summers are warm and quite early. The average temperature in July is +24°C. Winters are mild and very wet, however, despite this, there is little precipitation here - up to 1000 mm per year. The average temperature in January is +7 °С. The north-west of France is characterized by strong sea winds, which in the coastal area can reach significant strength, and as they penetrate deep into the territory, they quickly lose their pressure. It was to combat the elements that the locals developed the system of the famous bocage forest belts.
Historical background
Ancient Armorica, or, as the Romans called this area, the Land by the Sea, until the 5th century AD was inhabited by Celtic tribes, and after that 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 mainland France. Most modern towns, like Saint-Lô, Saint-Brieuc or Saint-Malo, were founded by Irish or Welsh missionaries and named after ancient saints that probably no longer appear on any lists.
Language and culture
To this dayday the people inhabiting Brittany (France) in their culture and language are quite different from the population of the rest of this country. At the same time, local residents do their best to emphasize their authenticity both at the household level and at the official level. The Breton language, epic, traditions and complex symbolism retain their originality and significance even now, despite partial assimilation with French culture. In addition, the desire of this region for independence is clearly visible, manifested, for example, in the widespread use of historical and cultural names, in the struggle to create its own separate 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 festivities are completely saturated with the traditions of the people more than anywhere else in France, and they are clearly not designed 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, each of the settlements has its own zest. Brittany is no exception. Since 1532, its capital has been the city of Rennes, located in the middle part of the peninsula, at its very base. From here, Paris is only two hours away by high-speed train. The main cities of the region are Brest, Lorient, Vannes, Dinard, Dinan, Quimper, Saint-Malo and Auray. Below in this article we will provide an overview of the most beautiful settlements in Brittany that are interestingits historical and natural attractions. The map of France above will help anyone who wants to decide on the route, following which you can visit all these objects, learn a lot of interesting things and expand your horizons.
North coast of Brittany
1. Dinan. Traveling in Brittany, this port town is impossible to ignore. Behind its fortress walls, it 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 up along the cobbled narrow streets, the castle of the fourteenth century, the magnificent stone bridge over the river Rance. All this tells about the very rich past of this town, prospering thanks to crafts and trade. Many souvenir shops offer products of modern masters: wood gilders, glass blowers, etc.
2. Dinar. Tourist tours to Brittany must include this town in their list, because it is one of the oldest French resorts. Until the middle of the 19th century, it was a simple fishing village, until the English aristocracy liked the place. And now, like mushrooms after the rain, the villas of the British lords began to grow, who spent the summer season here, admiring the unusual view of the sea bay and enjoying the mild microclimate. The vegetation here is strongly reminiscent of the Mediterranean, and the town itself retains the former bourgeois atmosphere. Beautiful old villas make up the architectural landmark of Dinara. There are golf courses, a casino and a huge scope for lovers of sailing.
3. Saint Malo. Connoisseurs of surfing and sailing should definitely visit this modern resort, covered with the glory of corsairs. Huge waves and winds are attractive both for surfers and for those who just want to 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 experience in your memory.
4. Brest. This city has always been associated with the roar of cannons and the sea. It was founded to protect the western borders of the country, and during the Second World War, just like its namesake in Belarus, it was almost completely wiped off the face of the earth. However, today, rebuilt, it amazes its guests with the beauty of the gardens and the city castle, which houses the Admir alty.
Inner Brittany
1. Rennes. When visiting Brittany (France), it is impossible not to get acquainted with the capital of the region. First of all, it attracts with a diverse cultural life. This is a museum of fine arts, and the famous university, which is a major scientific center, and a theater. While in Rennes, be sure to take a stroll through its parks and the many riverfronts that criss-cross the city.
2. Vitre. One of the most beautiful castles in France is located in this city. It resembles children's dreams… One gets the impression that this is a medieval scenery, it is so alive. In addition, the impression is complemented by ancient, but well-preserved cobbled streets, half-timbered houses. As a result, a walk through the cityas if it turns into a real time travel.
3. Joscelin. This town is also famous for its castle, built in the Renaissance by the Rohan dynasty. By the way, their descendants still live in it. However, the facility is still open to the public. In Josselin, you can see Gothic churches, old houses, green terraces, open-air cafes and much more. In addition, a large medieval festival is regularly held here.
South Coast
1. Vann. This coastal town is often compared to Cannes. Here you can visit a medieval fortress, a sea harbor, a historical and cultural center with embankments. The village amazes with the architecture of old houses of the XV century, the castle and a magnificent garden.
2. Nantes. This is the historical birthplace of Anne of Brittany, the city of arts. Today, the ancient architecture of the family nest of the Breton princes and the ultra-modern palace of justice coexist here. Tourists are invited to visit the Jules Verne Museum, as well as 16 churches and the Cathedral of Peter and Paul.
Brittany, France. Natural attractions
Of course, this region is interesting not only for the architectural monuments listed above, but also for other attractions. When visiting Brittany (France is generally famous for its picturesque territories and original settlements, but the region we are considering is something special!), be sure to take the time to get acquainted with these places:
1. Pink granite coast. Considered one of the most romantic places in France. It lies between Treberden and Perros-Guirec, its namereceived thanks to pink-hued granite blocks piled up on the coast.
2. Ile de Brea is an island off the north coast of the region. The wonderful picturesqueness of this area attracts many tourists here.
3. Karnak stones. This is the well-known "garden" of megalithic stones, often compared to Stonehenge.
4. Pampona forest. In this gloomy forest, stretching over 7,000 hectares, Celtic druids used to gather. In addition, it was here that the events described in the tale of King Arthur and the Holy Grail took place.
