Laval
Nicknamed the "City of Dukes," Laval is a city of art and history that stretches elegantly along the banks of the Mayenne River. Capital of a prosperous county on the border of Maine and Brittany, it offers an authentic face where medieval granite meets the gentleness of gardens and the boldness of new technologies.
Laval Castle: A Stone Epic
Dominating the river with its imposing silhouette, the castle stands as a privileged witness to eight centuries of history.
The Old Castle: Admire its 12th-century circular keep, one of the best-preserved in France, and its medieval living quarters, which now house the unique Museum of Naïve and Outsider Art (MANAS).
The New Castle: In the Renaissance style, this elegant building features finely crafted facades that contrast with the defensive appearance of the medieval fortress.
The Crypt and the Chapel: Delve into the heart of the castle to discover sacred spaces imbued with mystery and exceptional acoustics.
Old Laval: A Medieval Labyrinth
Getting lost in the narrow streets of the historic center is like stepping back in time through the centuries and the history of traditional craftsmanship.
Half-Timbered Houses: Around Place de la Trémoille, discover brightly colored 15th-century half-timbered houses, testaments to the wealth of the linen merchants of yesteryear.
The Beucheresse Gate: This monumental gate, flanked by two massive towers, marked the entrance to the walled city. It remains one of the most impressive vestiges of the old ramparts.
The Trinity Cathedral: A building showcasing a variety of styles, from Romanesque to Gothic, housing tapestries and marble altarpieces that have made the region famous.
Mayenne: The Soul Along the Water
The Mayenne River is not just a backdrop; it's the lifeblood that gives Laval its peaceful and romantic atmosphere.
The Old Bridge: Built in the 13th century, this stone bridge offers the most beautiful view of the castle reflected in the river's calm waters.
The Towpath and Cruises: Take the old towpath on foot or by bike for a bucolic stroll, or hop aboard a sightseeing boat to discover the city from a new perspective.
The "Saint-Julien" Washhouse Boat: Unique in Europe, this washhouse boat moored at the quayside evokes the era when washerwomen brought life to the city's riverbanks.
Gardens and Strolls: The Green Interlude
Laval is a city that breathes, offering numerous green spaces where nature reclaims its place in the heart of the city.
The Jardin de la Perrine: A veritable balcony overlooking the Mayenne River, this park boasts a magnificent rose garden, a small zoo, and the tomb of the famous painter Henri Rousseau, a native son.
Boston Square: A modern and playful space on the riverbank, ideal for families and the cultural events that punctuate life in Laval.
The Municipal Greenhouses: For botany enthusiasts, these greenhouses are brimming with exotic species and showcase the city's exceptional floral displays.
Gastronomy and Local Products of Mayenne
Laval's cuisine reflects the city itself: generous, authentic, and proud of its local produce.
Cheese and Dairy Products: A land of milk par excellence, the region is home to global brands as well as distinctive cheeses to be savored at local markets.
Rillettes and Poultry: The Mayenne region excels in charcuterie and high-quality poultry, often served in the inns of Old Laval.
Cider and Pommeau: The surrounding orchards produce fruity and tangy beverages that perfectly complement the culinary specialties of Maine.
Conclusion
Laval is a destination to be savored with curiosity. Between the imposing presence of its ramparts and the gentle banks of the Mayenne River, it offers a perfect balance for a stay steeped in culture and serenity. Whether you come to admire the naive art or to stroll across the old bridge at dusk, Laval leaves the impression of a city proud of its past but resolutely embracing a timeless, gentle way of life.
Laval Agglomeration Tourist Office
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