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Origin and history

The Calvary of Lanouee is a religious monument in granite located at the place called Pomeleuc, in the municipality of Lanouee, Morbihan (British). Dated from the 16th century, it is distinguished by its monolithic structure, composed of a granite cross placed on a masonry base. The cask, of circular and ecotized section, supports a representation of Christ on the cross, surrounded by the figures of the Virgin and Saint John. Statuts adorn the base, connected by a rope-shaped knot. This ordeal, partially damaged (the barrel is broken), could have served as a table of offerings, reflecting the local devotional practices of the time.

Ranked a Historic Monument since May 23, 1927, the Calvary illustrates the 16th century Breton Christian art. His bas-reliefs include, on one side, a scene of Calvary where Christ has his feet superimposed, and on the other, a Virgin of Mercy. These representations, typical of Renaissance religious sculpture in Brittany, bear witness to the popular fervour and central role of Calvaries in community life. The monument, owned by the municipality, remains a remarkable example of the Christian architectural heritage of the region.

Available sources (Wikipedia, Monumentum) highlight its historical and artistic importance. Although its exact location is estimated to be mediocre (precision 5/10), the Lanouée Calvary continues to attract attention for its iconography and its granite bill, emblematic material of the Morbihan. Its present state, with a barrel reduced in height, recalls the hazards of time and the challenges of the conservation of the Breton rural heritage.

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