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The Place du Marchix is located in the city's oldest district. The square takes its name from the Old French word "marchié," as Fougères's first market once took place here. The district is characterized by well-preserved half-timbered houses dating back to the 16th century, many of which are listed as historical monuments. The square was once a center for artisanal businesses such as tanneries and cloth manufacturers, which used the nearby river to process leather and fabrics.

The Église Saint-Léonard was built in the 12th century and acquired its present form in the flamboyant Gothic style in the 15th and 16th centuries. During the French Revolution, the church was deprived of its sacred function, but in the 19th century, under architects such as Aristide Tourneux, it underwent extensive renovations, including a new main façade with a large rose window. Inside, 19th-century stained-glass windows depicting episodes from the life of Saint Léonard can be seen.

The cadastral records of the Château Fort de Fougères mention two towers—the Tour Raoul and the Tour Surienne (also called "tour de Surienne")—dated between 1480 and 1485. The tower was part of the fortifications that were reinforced or rebuilt in the 15th century.

The Tour Surienne was named after Françoise de Surienne. In March 1449, in the midst of a truce between France and England, François de Surienne, a Spanish mercenary in the pay of the English, attacked in the dead of night with his 600 men. The inhabitants were slaughtered and the city plundered. In 1450, Surienne settled there and entrenched himself. Only after a two-month siege by Francis I, Duke of Brittany, who was aided by a plague epidemic, did Surienne surrender.

The church tower can be visited in high season, where you can discover an incredible panorama of Fougères as well as its monuments and the surrounding countryside. Here you will have the opportunity to discover the secret interior of its tower, its impressively large bell and of course... a spectacular 360° view of the city, the castle and the valley!

As you visit Place du Marchix, nestled in one of France’s most picturesque medieval towns, you’ll be surrounded by beautifully preserved half-timbered houses. Full of rustic charm that harks back to its days as a bustling market, you’ll be captivated by the sight of Château de Fougères, one of Europe’s largest medieval fortresses, whose imposing towers and walls dominate the skyline. The square itself offers a peaceful retreat with quiet cafes and local shops, making it a great place to take a break and appreciate the history of this charming town.

In this area you should take advantage of all the opportunities that arise

The tower of the Château de Fougères.