Timeline

Key figures

Origin and history

The abbey of Saint-Michel de Kergonan was founded in 1897 on the ruins of the 16th century castle, acquired in 1895 by Benedictines. The architect Joseph Caubert de Cléry designed the building, mixing warheads and sled windows. The stones of the demolished castle were used for its construction, while its neighbour, Sainte-Anne Abbey, was founded on the same day.

In 1901 the law on religious congregations forced the nuns to leave the abbey in 1904, interrupting the work of the chapel. The site was temporarily occupied by the Grand Séminaire de Vannes in 1907, then transformed into a private boarding school in 1911. Despite these upheavals, the abbey maintained its commitment to Gregorian chant.

In 1927, the abbey played a key role in the publication of Dom André Mocquereau's Gregorian Musical Number, exiled after 1901. The nuns made chironomic drawings and an analytical table, despite legal restrictions. Their contribution was praised in the foreword of the book, highlighting their expertise in Gregorian rhythm.

In the 21st century, the abbey continues this tradition, participating in publications such as the Gregorian Hours (2008). The choir mistress, Sister Marie-Emmanuel Pierre, published in 2005 Cantabo Domino, a reference work. Five abbesses have succeeded each other since its foundation, including Mother Laurence Dupré La Tour, blessed in 2007.

The architecture of the Abbey, marked by its blue granite and neo-Gothic elements, reflects its turbulent history. Today, it houses 25 nuns (in 2012) and remains an active place of prayer and preservation of liturgical heritage.

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