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Palace · Rennes, Bretanha
Parlement de Bretagne
17th-century palace that was the seat of the Parlement de Bretagne and today houses the court of appeal. The Grand'Chambre has gilded ceilings and allegorical paintings; visits are guided only.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Parlement de Bretagne
The Palais du Parlement de Bretagne was built in the 17th century to a design by Salomon de Brosse, and served as the seat of the Parlement de Bretagne, the province's high court, until the French Revolution abolished the institution in 1790.
Since 1804 the building has housed the cour d'appel, Rennes' court of appeal. It is a working court, which is why the interior is only visited with a guide.
The palace escaped the 1720 fire but suffered a blaze in 1994. After a long restoration the salons again display gilded wooden ceilings, carved panelling and 17th-century allegorical paintings. The highlight is the Grand'Chambre, the former ceremonial courtroom.
Outside, the granite façade dominates the Place du Parlement de Bretagne, one of the city's central squares, a few steps from Vieux Rennes.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1h30 with the guided visit; the façade and the square can be seen in a few minutes.
Best time
Book the guided visit in advance through Rennes' tourist office, especially in July and August and at weekends. Confirm days and times before you go.
How to get there
It is in the centre, at Place du Parlement de Bretagne. Metro République (line A) or Saint-Germain (line B).
Tip
Visits are usually in French; ask if there is a session in another language. As it is a court, there is security control at the entrance.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Parlement de Bretagne
Can you enter without a guide?
No. The building is an active courthouse and the interior can only be visited with a guide, by reservation.
What was the Parliament of Brittany?
It was the high court of justice of the province of Brittany, created in 1554 and abolished in 1790 during the Revolution.
What is the Grand'Chambre?
It is the former chamber for solemn hearings, with a gilded wooden ceiling and 17th-century paintings. It's the most ornate hall in the palace.