Memorial to the Abolition of Slavery
Mémorial de l'abolition de l'esclavage
A half-sunken memorial promenade along the Loire quays that confronts Nantes' past as France's largest slave-trading port; admission is free.
In the 18th century, Nantes was France's largest slave-trading port. The memorial, opened in 2012, consists of a riverside walkway at ground level, inlaid with 2,000 glass plaques recording the names of slave ships that sailed from Nantes and the African and American ports they visited. Underground is a reflective gallery stretching about 90 metres along the river, its walls inscribed with abolition declarations and documents in many languages. Entry is free. It is located on the riverbank southwest of the castle, and can be combined with the history museum inside the castle to learn more about this chapter of history.
Opening hours
Approx. 09:00–18:00 (extended to 20:00 in summer)
Nearby sights
- Les Machines de l'Île
- La Cigale
- Passage Pommeraye
- Place Royale
- Basilique Saint-Nicolas
- Île Feydeau
- Tour Bretagne – Le Nid
- Hangar à Bananes & Les Anneaux