Au Cadran Solaire

Nantes is a city in the Loire-Atlantique department of France on the Loire, 50 km (31 mi) from the Atlantic coast. The city is the sixth largest in France, with a population of 327,734 in Nantes proper (2023) and a metropolitan area of 1,050,815 inhabitants (2023). With Saint-Nazaire, a seaport on the Loire estuary, Nantes forms one of the main north-western French metropolitan agglomerations.

Nantes is located on the Loire River, which adds to its beauty and charm. The city has a fascinating history, dating back to the Roman era. It was a major port during the 17th and 18th centuries, and this can be seen in the grand architecture of the city. One of the most famous landmarks in Nantes is the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, a magnificent castle that was once the residence of the Dukes of Brittany.

In addition to its historical landmarks, Nantes is also home to some impressive modern architecture. The city is renowned for its art and design scene, and you will find many contemporary buildings and installations throughout the city. One of the most striking examples is the Les Machines de l'Île, a unique attraction that combines art, engineering, and fantasy. Here, you can see giant mechanical animals, including a 12-meter high elephant, roam around a park.