Chapelle de la Trinité de Canihuel

Canihuel

Perched on the watershed between the Channel and the Atlantic, beside the road to Corlay, the chapel of La Trinité owes its foundation, according to local tradition, to Guillaume Le Lay, abbot of Daoulas, who died in 1502 — even though its construction, spread over the 15th century, seems to predate his death. No lord ever having had his arms carved here, a rare fact noted by local historians, the chapel belonged wholly to popular devotion. A nearby spring, reputed to heal, drew families in search of a remedy for childhood ailments and rheumatism — a practice of rural piety typical of inland Brittany, where Marian fervour mingled with beliefs about sacred waters. Left abandoned and plundered over the decades, the chapel came close to disappearing, until an association of local residents, the Amis de la Chapelle, was formed in 1980 to save it, with the support of Breizh Santel, the movement for the safeguarding of religious heritage; the works, begun in 1981, restored all its character. Fully renovated, it continues to live to the rhythm of the commune, today hosting fest-noz (Breton night festivals) and boules competitions in its close, proof that an ancient place of devotion can remain a heart of community life.

Getting there : Free admission

Opening times and access details are given as a guide only: check before you set out.

Ambient sound