Located where the Canal de Nantes a Brest and the Blavet River meet in the Brittany region of northwestern France, the town of Pontivy is largely dependent on agriculture for its livelihood, but the old town also attracts a fair share of tourists each year. In discussions Pontivy is informally divided into two parts – a medieval section and a Napoleonic section – for greater historical understanding.

The medieval part of Pontivy is home to an impressive 15th century castle, the Chateau des Rohan, which is complete with a moat and is surrounded by the winding streets and charming, half-timbered houses that were typical to this time period. Conversely, the Napoleonic part of Pontivy boasts a much more predictable and methodical 18th century layout. While here, also be sure to check out the stunning stained-glass windows in the Eglise St. Joseph, as well as the 15th century Notre-Dame-de-Joie basilica.