The northern part of Pontivy has a well-preserved medieval-renaissance quarter.
Pontivy, the small capital of Central Brittany.
A hint of a castle, a sprinkling of half-timbered houses, a sprinkling of the Nantes-Brest canal and the sweet smell of crêpes - are you there yet? Welcome to Pontivy! With a population of 15,000, the town known as the "capital of Central Brittany" has many assets and secrets to offer ...
A historic city centre
But what would Pontivy's old quarter be without its symbol: the castle ! Built in 15e It was built in the 16th century by one of the most powerful men in Brittany, Viscount Jean II de Rohan. This castle, one of the last to be built in the Middle Ages, is striking for its massive, squat appearance.
A historic city centre
Although small for its size, Pontivy has such a rich history that it has nothing to be ashamed of when compared with the major towns of Brittany. Originally the medieval capital of the Lords of Rohan, pretenders to the ducal throne of Brittany, in the 19th century Pontivy became the capital of the Lords of Rohan.e century the name NapoléonvilleThis was the result of Napoleon I's decision, almost unique in France, to build a new town.
With almost 50 half-timbered houses, Pontivy is renowned for its well-preserved heritage.
Follow in the footsteps of the Rohan family through the narrow cobbled streets of the city's oldest quarter.
Crossed by water
As the town is not by the sea, it makes up for this shortcoming thanks to its various waterways. The river Blavet, now canalised, runs right through the town, which is also the centre of the Nantes-Brest canal. The intersection of these canals and their towpaths in the town centre offers residents and visitors alike an unspoilt route for cycling, walking and picnicking!
A lively tourist town
Throughout the year, the town hosts a wide range of cultural, artistic, musical and sporting events, with the summer season being one of the highlights. Many outdoor activities are on offer to delight young and old alike, in a number of pedestrianised streets and squares.
Activities for everyone
Alone, with friends or with the family, you'll find something for everyone: historical, natural, cultural, musical... there's something for every taste and every age!
From guided tours are organised by the tourist office at Château des Rohanin the 2 quarterson the banks of the canal, in costume, dramatised…
What's not to miss in Pontivy?
When you visit the city of PontivyBefore you set off again, it's essential that you :
- take a selfie in front of the Château des Rohan
- say hello to the statue of General De Lourmel
- refresh yourself by walking along the Nantes to Brest canal
- explore the pedestrianised streets among the half-timbered houses
- eat a pancake!
Check out the interactive map of the Pontivy district below!
