Nantes

Located in western France along the banks of the Loire river, Nantes is known as being a very innovative city, with many high tech industries making Nantes their home. It is also home to the University of Nantes, a well respected institution. Formerly, Nantes was the capital of Brittany....

Located in western France along the banks of the Loire river, Nantes is known as being a very innovative city, with many high tech industries making Nantes their home. It is also home to the University of Nantes, a well respected institution. Formerly, Nantes was the capital of Brittany. It is thought that the city was founded in 70 BC by the Celts. By the 18th century, Nantes was France’s main port city. Students enrolled in French school in Nantes will appreciate all that the modern day city has to offer, and all that they can learn from the city’s history. The Chateau des Ducs, a large fortified castle is an interesting piece of city’s past. Serving as the residence for the Dukes of Brittany between the 13th and 16th centuries, the castle now houses the Nantes History Museum. The museum is spread through 32 rooms in the castle and presents information about the city from the past and the present while also taking a look to the future. In the evenings, the outside of the castle is beautifully illuminated. Visitors to the historic center of Nantes will see that it is easily navigated on foot. While in the city, visitors should be sure to sample the local cuisine which is influenced by the easy access to a variety of seafoods. Students taking French courses in Nantes will find that the general population in Nantes is fairly young. This adds to the general vibrant feel in the city, and is reflected in various aspects of the city life. Visitors will find that there is a broad range of boutiques available for shopping and a very energetic nightlife found throughout the city.