The Beauty Of Nantes' Architecture In 10 Buildings

Nantes is an architectural melting pot. New bold building projects sit alongside historic landmarks and ancient facades. Here are our top 10 buildings from both these angles that simply shouldn’t be missed.

1. Église Sainte-Croix de Nantes

Church, Cathedral

This ornate church lies in the historic Bouffay district of Nantes and has been its parish church since 1138. In 1860, the beautiful bell tower, which can’t be helped to be noticed on first approaching the church, was added, with a circle of angels playing trumpets out over the city.

2. Théatre Graslin

Theatre

Nantes’ 18th-century theatre and opera house sits proudly at the head of an attractive square—Place Graslin—in the city’s old town. It’s beautifully illuminated at night, so if you don’t get a chance to attend a performance here during your stay, definitely amble by the exterior after dark.

La Tour Lu

Lu is a well-known biscuit brand in France and La Tour Lu—now an exciting arts space in Nantes—was one of its first factories. The restored art deco tower (there used to be a pair, but sadly the second didn’t survive WWII) can be seen from various points around the city. In particular, note the eagles that symbolize prestige and an angel with a trumpet in his hand.

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3. Passage Pommeraye

Shopping Mall

The elaborate Passage Pommeraye is a 1840s shopping mall in the heart of Nantes, classified as a historic monument since 1976. When it was built, Nantes was a booming industrial city, so the mall injected an elegance that was not so often seen. The beautiful statues represent agriculture, fine arts, maritime trade, and more.

Building B

In the creative quarter in Nantes, Building B is an energy efficient exhibition space constructed from local trees. Architectural firm Barre-Lambot was behind the design and it serves as an information center on wood and regional businesses.

4. Pont Éric-Tabarly

Bridge

Named after Nantes’ famous navigator Éric Tabarly, this road bridge was built entirely in a workshop in Belgium and installed in place in 2011. Head down to Île de Nantes for a great view of this impressive structure. Does it remind you of another bride in France? The famous Millau Viaduct had the same project management.