Rennes

Rennes is the capital of the Brittany region and of the department Ille-et-Vilaine, in northwestern France. It lies on the Vilaine River, roughly 300 km west of Paris and is a major administrative, educational, and cultural center. The city hosts two universities, Université de Rennes 1 and Université de Rennes 2, and a large student population.

Historically, Rennes originated as a Gallo-Roman settlement known as Condate and developed as a leading town of the Duchy of Brittany. In the Early Modern period it was the seat of the Parliament of Brittany, a position that helped shape its urban development with aristocratic palaces, markets, and religious buildings.

Key sights include the Parlement de Bretagne, a former law court dating from the 17th and 18th centuries; the Gothic Saint-Pierre Cathedral; the half-timbered houses in the historic centre; and the Place des Lices, famous for its market. The cultural complex Les Champs Libres brings together a library, a museum, and a cinema. Rennes also has a notable student culture and a thriving festival scene.

Economically, Rennes is a services and knowledge center, with strengths in education, public administration, high tech and life sciences within the metropolitan area. In sports, the city is home to Stade Rennais F.C., which plays at Roazhon Park.

Transport links include Gare de Rennes, an important railway hub with TGV connections to Paris and other major cities, and Rennes–Saint-Jacques Airport for regional flights. The city is served by a network of buses and tram lines.