Train station of Sainte Pazanne

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Presentation

In the second half of the 19th century, the Pays de Retz saw the arrival of the railway... 🚂

Development of the railway

The first line opened to passenger traffic in France (Paris–Saint-Germain-en-Laye) was inaugurated on 26 August 1837.
Six main lines were established, including the one linking Paris to Nantes, a journey taking 13 hours. Numerous regional services were then established, with the exception of the Pays de Retz. Transport links in this area were few and far between and difficult to access.
Two men recognised the importance of the railway’s arrival in opening up the Pays de Retz: Count Gustave de Juigné and Janvier de la Motte. Several plans for the Pont-Rousseau–Pornic line were then drawn up in collaboration with the local councils, the Loire-Inférieure General Council and the prefecture. The branch line to Machecoul would branch off at Sainte-Pazanne, and the branch to Paimboeuf at Saint-Hilaire-de-Chaléons.

The Pont-Rousseau–Pornic line was opened on 11 September 1875. At that time, the train’s speed was 35 km/h and the journey took 2 hours and 5 minutes.
Sainte-Pazanne station opened on 4 October 1875.

Sainte-Pazanne station 🚝

The station was built as part of the development of the Nantes–Pornic railway line, which carried passengers to the Atlantic coast. It is typical of the region’s railway architecture (stone and brick). Following technological advances, changes have been made since the 19th century. The current station is still housed in its original building, but the ticket office for passengers has been closed since the summer of 2019.

The signal box, with its levers, has been replaced by computerised systems. The signal gantry and the level crossing barriers – which were once operated by hand cranks – have also been replaced by automated systems.

Did you know?

You can explore Sainte-Pazanne station, as well as the history of Sainte-Pazanne itself, by following an interpretive trail through the town’s streets and paths.
The building that once housed this railway station is now home to a dining venue: La Station, a Mexican café-restaurant which also offers a workspace on the upper floor. 🌮