Saint-Gildas-des-Bois

Saint -Gildas -des- Bois is a commune with 3451 inhabitants (as of January 1, 2011 ) in the canton of Saint -Gildas -des- Bois in the Loire -Atlantique in the Pays de la Loire.

Geography

Saint -Gildas -des- Bois is situated 17 km south of Redon. The surrounding communities are Sévérac, Missillac, Pontchâteau, Drefféac and Guenrouet.

History

The present name is derived from a natural pine forest that was planted under the reign of Philip II. The previous name was probably Saint -Gildas -des- Marais. As the neighboring communities in the hinterland of Saint- Nazaire was Saint -Gildas -des- Bois part of the fortress Saint- Nazaire during the German occupation of France. As a result, the town was freed after the surrender of the fort on 11 May 1945.

Attractions

• Abbey of Saint -Gildas -des- Bois in the 12th century, classified as a monument historique
• Château de la Barillette

Gastronomy

The cheese Saint -Gildas -des- Bois was named after the community.

Sports

On July 9, 2013 started in place the tenth stage of the Tour de France 2013.