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Origin and history

The chapel of Saint-Samson, located in Pleumeur-Bodou in the Côtes-d'Armor, is a religious building built between 1575 and 1631. It embodies the typical architecture of the Beaumanoir school, marked by a bell tower flanked by a dome turret housing the bell access staircase. Its campanile, pierced by three bays and surmounted by an octagonal arrow, is complemented by mâchicoulis extending the terrace platform. The south facade, adorned with an oculus and a curved entrance, houses a flamboyant glass mistress. The chapel was a place of pilgrimage for the sick seeking healing thanks to the water of the fountain Saint-Samson or a cross located near the entrance.

The site also includes a Christianized menhir dating back to 3000 BC, showing an ancient occupation. The chapel, restored in the 19th century, was inscribed in the Historical Monuments on October 7, 1964. It was frequented by the fascicians (lay administrators) of Pleumeur and pilgrims attracted by his healing virtues. Its access, by a country road, reinforces its isolated and sacred character, typical of Breton chapels associated with sources or megaliths.

The architecture of the chapel reflects local influences, with defensive elements such as mâchicoulis and a neat decoration (pinnacles, florons). The southern foothill, dating from 1575, bears witness to its progressive construction. The adjacent fountain, an inseparable element of the Breton shrines, and the Christianized menhir highlight the superposition of pagan and Christian cults on this site, characteristic of the region.

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