Chapelle Saint-Maudet

Clohars-Carnoët

The story of the chapel of Saint-Maudet is that of a genuine architectural removal. Built in the 16th and 17th centuries at Nizon, it was entirely dismantled in 1956 to be rebuilt, stone by stone, at Clohars-Carnoët, as part of the tourist development of the neighbouring resort. The architect Brunerie took care to put every original element back exactly in its place, so that the present building, despite its move, retains the whole of its ancient fabric. Dedicated to Saint Maudet, a Welsh monk who came to evangelise Armorica in the 6th century and whom tradition invokes against skin diseases and for the protection of animals, the chapel has been an active place of pilgrimage since the 16th century. Its annual pardon (the Breton pilgrimage festival), particularly associated with the blessing of horses, perpetuates a rural tradition in which religious fervour mingled with the very practical concerns of Breton peasants, dependent on their draught animals. Registered as a historic monument in 1962, the chapel today belongs to an association that sees to its upkeep and to the continuation of its traditions. This singular destiny — a sanctuary saved from abandonment by changing commune while keeping its soul — makes it a rare witness to the way Breton religious heritage has sometimes had to reinvent itself in order to survive the 20th century.

Getting there : Free admission, owned by an association.

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

Ambient sound