A region labelled "Land of Art and History"

Since 2011, the Vignoble Nantais has been awarded the “Pays d’Art et d’Histoire” (“Land of Art and History”) label. This national label, awarded by the French Ministry of Culture, underlines the richness of the region’s heritage: landscapes, architecture, collective memory, wine-making know-how… An invitation to take a different look at these lands of contrasts.

"Land of Art and History" A heritage of architecture, landscapes and vineyards

The “Pays d’Art et d’Histoire” of the Vignoble Nantais promotes three main types of heritage.

The architecture a reflection of neighbouring areas

Between Breton, Angevin, Poitevin and Italian influences, the local architecture expresses a history of transitions and exchanges. You’ll come across winegrowers’ houses, elegant orangeries, riverside mills and Italian architecture imported to Clisson in particular.

Waterscapes Loire, Sèvre, Maine and Goulaine marshes

Rivers, marshes and streams have shaped the region. The Loire, the Sèvre Nantaise, the Maine and the Goulaine marshes have influenced human settlement and agricultural practices, as well as the ecosystems that are now protected by several classifications.

The vineyard wine culture and know-how

The winegrowing landscape, structured by theAOC Muscadet Sèvre et Maine, dates back to the VIᵉ century. It embodies an agricultural tradition, a built heritage and a living culture. The label also recognises the value of the vineyard and the skills passed down through the generations.

©The Vignoble Nantais, a region with the Pays d'Art et d'Histoire label: a grape harvest workshop at the Musée du Vignoble Nantais

©The Vignoble Nantais, a region with the Pays d'Art et d'Histoire label: a guided tour of Clisson

The "Pays d'Art et d'Histoire" label a commitment to promoting the region

The “Pays d’Art et d’Histoire” label rewards local authorities that are committed to understanding, preserving and promoting their heritage. Inventories are carried out in partnership with the Pays de la Loire Region, accompanied by exhibitions, conferences and publications. The Forum association, dedicated to local history, also contributes to this promotion.

A tripartite agreement with the State and the Département formalises this ten-year commitment, which will be renewed in 2021.

Publications of the "Pays d'art et d'histoire"

As part of the graphic charter for Towns and Places of Art and History, the Pays du Vignoble Nantais offers publications to accompany a visit in situ, or to take a look at sites that are not accessible to the public.

Focus and Journey

These brochures will help you explore the heritage of the banks of the Sèvre and Loire rivers, the neo-classical villas, the Chaussée des Moines, the village of Saint-Fiacre and the Hellfest site! You can collect them from the...

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