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Origin and history

The Notre-Dame de Penhors chapel, located in Pouldreuzic, Brittany, is a historical monument dating back to the 13th century, with architectural traces still visible in the northern choir. The building underwent a major reconstruction in the 15th century, followed by an expansion in the 16th century by the addition of two lateral chapels forming transept. These transformations reflect its growing importance as a place of bigouden pilgrimage, attracting the faithful of the region.

The site retains a placister surrounded by a triumphal arc and fragments of a calvary dated 1617, bearing the inscription IACQVE: LE: BER DE KERGGIDAN FA 1617. This calvary, as well as the walled vault and the Pont-Croix style piles, testify to its rich artistic heritage. Owned by the priory of Locmaria de Quimper between the 16th and 18th centuries, the chapel was sold as a national property to the Revolution before becoming a communal.

The bell tower, destroyed by lightning, was rebuilt in the early twentieth century, adding a modern bell to the ensemble. Ranked a Historical Monument in 1963, the chapel includes in its protection the triumphal arch, the calvary and the placister. Today, it remains a religious and cultural symbol of Bigouden country, linked to centuries of Marian devotion.

Architecturally, the chapel illustrates Breton stylistic evolutions, from 13th century Romanesque arcades to Gothic additions of the 15th and 16th centuries. His plan, marked by a nave and a transept, as well as his carved elements, make it a remarkable example of Finistrian sacred heritage. The current management by the commune of Pouldreuzic ensures its preservation and its openness to the public.

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