Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

Morlaix Municipal Theatre was built at the end of the 19th century, thanks to two major events: the arrival of the railway linking Morlaix to Paris after the construction of the railway bridge, and the 320,000 francs bequest of Count Paul-Ange de Guernisac in 1875, intended to finance a performance hall. This notable artist, a friend of the arts, made a lasting mark on the city's cultural history. At the end of 1886, the municipal council validated the project, entrusted to the Parisian architect Théodore Charpentier and the Lyon-based company Diosse et Fils, specialized in theatres.

The facade, sober and elegant, consists of a ground floor and a floor, with a central span surmounted by a triangular pediment decorated with an allegory of music, the Harmony, carved by Daniel Dupuis. Inside, the Italian-style elliptical hall, with a capacity of 600 seats, impresses with its ceiling painted in dome at 12 meters high, decorated with medallions and golden banners by Maison Diosse. The avant-scene lodges have coats of arms symbolizing the Breton identity (black hermines) and the harbour history of Morlaix.

Inaugurated on 14 April 1888 with a representation of the Comédie Française, the theatre quickly became a major cultural place. Partially listed as a Historic Monument in 1996 (theatre) and 1998 (room and machinery), it now bears witness to the patronage of the 19th century and the urban boom linked to rail. Its architecture and decor make it a remarkable example of the provincial theatres of the time.

Located at 27 rue de Brest, the building belongs to the municipality of Morlaix (Finistère). Its location, noted as a priori satisfactory (6/10), and its conservation status make it a still active heritage, although the available GPS coordinates remain approximate. Protected elements include the room, stage space and machinery, highlighting its historical and technical importance.

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