When I told Doug I was visiting St. Malo, he wanted me to take pictures of Jacques Cartier's home and final resting place; Doug illustrated Man from St. Malo, published by Macmillan, 1959 as one of the Great Stories of Canada series.
Cartier, who lead several expeditions from 1534-1543 to claim new lands for Francis I, is regarded the true discoverer of Canada - naming the St. Lawrence River and planting the fleur de lis on North American soil (Quebec).
St. Malo, located in Brittany on France's northwest coast, was built, starting in the Middle Ages, as a walled citadel to guard the estuary of the Rance. The granite walls surrounding the old town are imposing as one nears the entrance gate.
The walk to the old town both welcomes and impresses visitors with the history of the port.
St. Malo is a great destination for its history and charm; the carousel was a delight.
The flags welcome visitors, even before entering the main entrance to the old town.
Main entrance to the old town.
Once inside, city hall is on the right.
A charming hotel, cafe and boutiques on the left, across from city hall.
Walking toward the ramparts, where visitors can then see two tiny tidal islands accessible by foot at low tide.
Fort National, built in 1689 on one of the islands, protected St. Malo from attack; it was, however, unable to deter the Nazis, who occupied St. Malo in 1940 and fortified it as part of the Atlantic Wall.
Walking further along the ramparts, looking at the beach below during low tide.
Looking left toward the old town.
Walking down to the center of the old town, turn right to enter the Saint-Malo Cathedral, built in Romanesque and Gothic styles with beautiful stained glass windows.
A plaque in the floor of the main aisle honors Jacques Cartier.
In an alcove on the left of the main altar, there's a tribute to Cartier near his remains.
After leaving the cathedral and walking back toward the main entrance gate, I passed by the Hotel Cartier.
(blog entries by Heidi Hutson)
