Timeline

Heritage classified

Origin and history

The 16th century Calvary, located in Ploërmel in Morbihan, is a monolithic granite cross erected on a masonry base. It presents a decoration carved in a round hump: on one side, a cross Christ framed by the Virgin and Saint John, and on the other, a Virgin of pity. This type of monument, frequent in Brittany, served both as a religious landmark and as a place of devotion for the faithful.

The cross, also called the Cross of Roc-Brien, is located at the place called Pivalet, on the road leading to the Ville-Hervy. It was listed as historic monuments on May 30, 1927, recognizing its heritage value. The monument, owned by the municipality, illustrates the Christian art of the Breton Renaissance, marked by expressive representations and careful stonework.

At the time of its construction in the 16th century, Ploërmel and its region were integrated into the Duchy of Brittany, then in the midst of a transition towards integration into the Kingdom of France. Calvary played a central role in local religious life, serving as a support for preaching, processions and collective prayer. Their iconography reflected the devotional beliefs and practices of the time, often mixing biblical scenes and protective symbols.

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