Grand Park of La Briantais

The story of the Grand Park of La Briantais stretches back to the 18th century, when this impressive estate began to take shape, designed as an "English-style" park, contrasting with the more formal French gardens common at the time. The original 17th-century manor, a significant structure, stood sentinel over the Rance estuary long before the grander château was built. The estate found itself embroiled in the tumultuous currents of the French Revolution, declared a "bien national" or national asset, and seized from its then-owner, Michel Picot de Presmenil, an influential Saint-Malo shipowner. Following the Revolution, the estate found its way back into private hands in 1803, purchased by Jacques-Wulfren Ethéart, marking the beginning of its journey through various prominent families. Perhaps its most significant private owner was Guy La Chambre, a celebrated figure in Saint-Malo's history. La Chambre, himself an heir to a distinguished lineage of shipowners and a multi-term minister during the Third and Fourth Republics, played a pivotal role in the city's reconstruction after the devastating events of 1945. His deep connection to Saint-Malo and his personal commitment ensured the estate was not merely a private residence but a part of the city's soul. In an act of great generosity and foresight, Guy La Chambre, lacking direct heirs, bequeathed La Briantais to the Diocesan Association of Rennes in 1978, ensuring its preservation. The story took another turn in 1999 when the City of Saint-Malo acquired the property. This acquisition marked a new era for La Briantais, transforming it from a private domain into a public park, freely accessible to everyone. Despite suffering the loss of hundreds of ancient trees during the severe storms of 1987 and 1999, the park has been diligently maintained and lovingly restored, preserving its historical character and its function as a cherished green space for both locals and visitors today.