France, Rennes

Rennes is the main city of the historic French region of Britanny and tenth largest city of France, Rennes combines the advantages of an economic and administrative metropolis with those of a reasonably-sized city.

Rennes is named after a Celtic tribe called the Riedones. The ancient Celtic Armorican tribe founded the city of Rennes. One of the capitals of the region of Brittany, the city has a long history due to its location at the confluence of two rivers. After Western Europe's rule was over, the city was the last of the Roman strongholds.

History

The site has been inhabited for more than two thousand years. In the Middle Ages Rennes was the capital city of the Duchy of Britanny and became the seat of the Britanny parliament (1562) following the union with France.

In 1720 a large section of the city was destroyed by fire and was rebuilt according to the plans of the Royal architect, Gabriel, following which the city played host to some of the first revolutionary activities in 1789.

In the 19th century the city modernised and, following the second world war, has undergone rapid development and is today one of the most dynamic cities in France.

Geography & Demographics

The city of Rennes is located in northwest France. The exact location of Rennes is in east of Brittany. Rennes is located on a hill. One side of the hill is more elevated than the other. The city is located at an altitude of 20 m - 74 m and covers a total land area of 50.39 square kilometer.

Rennes has a population of 212,500 with a density of 4,092 per square kilometers including almost 58,000 students (30% of the total population). This high proportion of young people ensures that the city's cultural life is particularly dynamic. The inhabitants of the city are called Rennais.

Economy

The quick growth of the economy as well as the continuous beautification of the area spurred more immigrants and expatriates to start investing as well and enjoy the laid back side of Rennes. Rennes has been an important economic, commercial, and administrative center, and has evolved into a renowned crossroads for high-tech research, telecommunications, manufacturing, and electronics.

Culture

Rennes is the centre of Celtic culture and traditions in France. Rennes has two major universities and a strong cultural heritage including museums, the Franco American Institute, art galleries, theaters, an opera, and a symphony orchestra.

Transportation

Transportation in Rennes is basically convenient and well-connected. The roads, railways and airways are well-maintained so travelers can easily go about or enter or exit the city anytime. Rennes is easily reached by air, road and rail, with the fast train from Paris a good option.

France benefits from a good rail network and the TGV (high speed train) serves Rennes from Paris. Rennes has a modern train station with a number of shopping and eating options.

The Rennes Metro has 15 stations in all measuring almost 10 kilometers long. Rennes is actually the tiniest city in the world with a metro.

The airport serving the city is the Rennes-St. Jacques Airport that is located to the south-west in the commune of Saint-Jacques-de-la-Lande.