This square is the very heart of the old town in Rennes. Much of the architecture in this area was destroyed during ‘le grand incendie’, or the great fire, of 1720. This was eventually accredited to being caused by a drunken carpenter setting light to some of his shavings. The square is one of the centres of social and political life in the community and is a popular spot for tourists and locals to gather, admiring the great buildings and enjoying a leisurely drink.