Built by the dukes of Brittany, who had no doubt that Nantes belonged in their domain, the Château des Ducs de Bretagne is a massive, well-preserved 15th-century fortress with a moat. François II, the duke responsible for building most of it, led a hedonistic life here, surrounded by ministers, chamberlains, and an army of servants. Numerous monarchs later stayed in the castle, where in 1598 Henri IV signed the famous Edict of Nantes advocating religious tolerance. The castle reopened in February 2007 after extensive renovations.
Visit the Travel Talk forums for help on planning your trip