The twinning between Rennes, France, and Sendai, Japan, was officially established on September 6, 1967, marking the beginning of a friendly and cultural relationship between the two cities. Over a decade later, in recognition of this bond, the city of Rennes decided to name a garden in the Maurepas neighborhood "Square de Sendai" on October 30, 1978.
How Has Square de Sendai Evolved Over the Years?
For many years, Square de Sendai remained a relatively simple plot of land, mainly covered in grass with no special features.
However, the 50th anniversary of the twinning presented an opportunity to rethink this space. In 2017, a participatory project was launched as part of the anniversary celebrations, with the goal of transforming the square into a space that better reflects Japanese aesthetics and spirit.
The project, supported by the residents of the Maurepas neighborhood, was selected, and redevelopment work began on October 19, 2017. The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by the Mayor of Rennes, Nathalie Appéré, and her counterpart from Sendai, Kazuko Kôri. Symbolically, they placed soil at the base of the first tree planted in the square, marking the beginning of its transformation.
Activities Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Twinning
In addition to the redevelopment of Square de Sendai, several cultural events were organized in Rennes to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the twinning.
Free activities were offered to the public in Rennes, particularly in the Place de la Mairie, allowing residents to discover and appreciate various aspects of Japanese culture. These festivities strengthened the ties between the two cities and highlighted their ongoing collaboration.
Inauguration of the New Square de Sendai
On September 13, 2018, the new Square de Sendai was inaugurated in the presence of neighborhood residents and Japanese associations from Rennes.
Although modest, this new space was designed to reflect a Japanese ambiance, offering a small haven of peace and escape for the residents of Maurepas. The garden is now a cherished spot for relaxation among locals, even if it lacks significant tourist appeal.
However, it is unfortunate that no elements explicitly commemorate the square’s history and the special connection between Rennes and Sendai. Adding signage or an explanatory plaque could enrich this space.
