Timeline

Key figures

Origin and history

The walls of Dinan were built in the 13th century under the impulse of the Duke of Brittany Jean le Roux, who acquired half of the city in 1283. This fortified belt, 2,600 metres long, is punctuated with iconic towers such as Beaumanoir, Connétable or Coëtquen. The ramparts, still intact on much of their route, were pierced by strategic gates such as those of the Jerzual, Saint-Malo and Brest, reflecting the defensive and commercial importance of the medieval city.

In the 14th century, the ramparts played a key role in the War of Succession of Brittany. In 1357, Bertrand Du Guesclin victoriously defended Dinan against English and Breton troops loyal to Jean de Montfort. The city, a strategic point between Normandy and the north coast of Brittany, resists thanks to its fortifications. The latter were modernized in the 15th century with the addition of artillery towers, although the guns had never served: Dinan went peacefully after the battle of Saint-Aubin-du-Cormier in 1488, marking his final attachment to France in 1532.

From the 16th century, the ramparts lost their defensive function with the evolution of military techniques and the opening of the city outwards. In the 19th century, Dinan became a popular tourist destination, especially by the British, while its fortifications became a heritage symbol. Despite some collapses, such as that of 2007 on the Rue du Général-de-Gaulle, the ramparts are now largely restored. They are a central element of the urban landscape, classified as Historic Monument in 1886, and animate local cultural life, especially during the Fête des Remparts, a biannual medieval event.

The walls of Dinan are integrated into a preserved architectural complex, including the castle, the Clock Tower and the historic gates. Their layout follows the steep topography of the city, overlooking the 75-metre Rance Valley. This heritage, combined with half-timbered houses and religious buildings, makes Dinan a "city of art and history", where the Middle Ages remains palpable. The fortifications also illustrate the cultural and military exchanges between Brittany, Normandy and the Kingdom of France, while stressing Dinan's key role as a stronghold and commercial hub.

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