Saint-Malo is a port city in Brittany, in the northwest of France. The tall granite walls surround the old town, which was once a stronghold for privateers (pirates approved by the king).

The Saint-Malo Cathedral, in the centre of the old town, is built in Romanesque and Gothic styles and features stained-glass windows depicting city history. Nearby is La Demure de Corsairs, an 18th-century privateer’s house and museum.

Basic Facts

Location: It is situated on the northern coast of Brittany, France, at the mouth of the Rance River. 

History: It was founded in the 1st century BC, it was initially a fortified island. 

Corsair City: St Malo was a major base for French privateers, who were essentially state-sponsored pirates, from the 17th to 19th centuries. 

Ramparts: The city is famous for their well-preserved ramparts, which offer scenic views of the coast and the city. 

Population:The city has a population of about 53,000, but this can swell significantly during the tourist season. 

Tourism: It’s a very popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its historical sites, beaches, and seafood. 

Tides: St Malo is known for its exceptionally high tides, the highest in Europe. At about 13 meters. 

Famous Residents: Jacques Cartier, the explorer of Canada, and the writer François-René de Chateaubriand, were both born in St Malo. 

Architecture: The city features a mix of medieval and 17th-century architecture, with many buildings constructed from granite. 

Major Industries: Fishing, shipbuilding, and chemical manufacturing are very important industries in St Malo. 

Map of Saint Malo

Saint Malo Causeway

Mood-board of Saint Malo