Ville Close de Concarneau

Stepping into the Ville Close de Concarneau, also known as the Ville close de Concarneau, is like stepping back in time. This fortified town, perched on an islet in the heart of Concarneau, France, is a treasure trove of medieval history and architectural splendor. Its stone walls, which have stood the test of time, whisper stories of battles, sieges, and everyday life from centuries past.

The Rich History of Ville Close de Concarneau

The origins of the Ville Close de Concarneau are steeped in legend. It is said that a figure named Concar liberated the site from the Picts and founded the town of Concarneau. During the early Middle Ages, the rocky islet of Conq, now the Ville Close, was part of the parish of Beuzec. By the 10th century, monks from the abbey of Landévennec had established a priory on the islet, laying the foundations for the fortified town that would follow.

Evidence of a 13th-century tower and a 14th-century wall near the Tour du Fer à Cheval indicates the existence of early fortifications. The first stone enclosure surrounding the islet was likely constructed around 1285 under Duke John II of Brittany. This fortification protected a thriving community of merchants, bourgeois, and fishermen.

The Ville Close became a strategic stronghold in Brittany, caught in the crossfire of French and English rivalries, especially during the War of the Breton Succession. The English captured the town in 1342, but it was reclaimed by Olivier Du Guesclin for France in 1373. The town's defenses were further strengthened in the mid-15th century under Duke Peter II of Brittany. The Ville Close changed hands several times during the late 15th century, reflecting the turbulent political landscape of the time.

Exploring the Fortifications

The Ville Close de Concarneau is encircled by robust granite walls, which stretch for approximately 980 meters. These walls, with an average thickness of 2.5 to 3 meters, have been meticulously maintained and restored over the centuries. Entering through the main gate, visitors are greeted by a series of wooden bridges and drawbridges that connect the various defensive structures.

Among the notable features of the fortifications are the eight towers that punctuate the walls. Each tower has its own unique history and purpose:

• The Governor's Tower: Built around 1477, this tower housed the residences of the town's captains and governors. It was reinforced by Vauban in the 17th century to support artillery platforms.
• The Major's Tower: Dating back to the 14th century, this tower served as a munitions depot and the living quarters for the town's major.
• The New Tower: Also known as the Powder Mill Tower, it was constructed in the 16th century to protect a vulnerable section of the walls at low tide.
• The Wine Gate Tower: This tower, built in the late 15th century, guarded the entrance to the town's first commercial port.
• The Passage Tower: Likely dating from the 15th century, it occupied a strategic position within the fortifications.
• The Dog Port Tower: Also called the Essence Tower, it was constructed in the 16th century.
• The Horseshoe Tower: Built in the 16th century and later filled in during the 19th century, recent restorations have uncovered remnants of a 13th-century tower within it.
• The Moor's Tower: This 15th-century tower features three cannon loopholes.
• The Fortune Tower: One of the oldest towers in the Ville Close, it is also known as the Mason's Tower and features three cannon loopholes.

The fortifications also include several gates, such as the Wine Gate and the Thieves' Gate, each with its own fascinating history. The Thieves' Gate, for instance, was used to transport criminals across the river for execution and was sealed for centuries before being reopened in 1991.

A Journey Through Time

Walking through the cobbled streets of the Ville Close de Concarneau, visitors can explore a variety of historical buildings and sites. The town's chapels, houses, and public buildings offer a glimpse into the lives of the people who once called this fortified islet home. The Chapel-Hospital of the Trinity, rebuilt in 1924 after a fire, served as a maternity hospital until the early 1970s.

The Ville Close also played a significant role in the local fishing industry. During the 19th century, the town's sardine canneries brought prosperity to Concarneau, transforming it into a bustling port. The walls of the Ville Close provided shelter for fishing boats during the winter months, and the town's sardine presses and fryers were eventually replaced by modern canneries.

A Living Monument

Today, the Ville Close de Concarneau is a vibrant tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world. Its historical significance and well-preserved architecture earned it the title of Brittany's favorite monument in a 2014 television program. The town's narrow streets, charming shops, and waterfront views make it a delightful place to explore.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply looking for a picturesque spot to wander, the Ville Close de Concarneau offers a captivating journey through time. Its walls and towers stand as a testament to the resilience and spirit of the people who built and defended this remarkable fortified town.