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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The Notre-Dame de Quelven Chapel, located in Guern in Morbihan, is an important Marian shrine, rebuilt at the end of the 15th century to welcome pilgrims. Its monumental scale is explained by the forgiveness of the Assumption, celebrated on August 15, which has attracted thousands of faithful since the Middle Ages. The flamboyant Gothic-style chapel is financed by the Viscounts of Rohan and the lords of Rimaison, and its construction spanned between 1476 and 1510, with subsequent additions such as the panel of the nave in 1582.

The chapel was classified as a Historic Monument in 1840, and its 72-metre-high bell tower collapsed in 1837 before being rebuilt between 1841 and 1865. The site also includes a 16th-century fountain, renowned for its curative virtues, and an 18th-century Scala Sancta, used for outdoor Masses. Forgiveness, once one of the most frequented in Brittany, combines religious and folk traditions, such as the descent of the pyrophoric angel and the burning of the tantad, a purifier fire.

Inside, the chapel houses exceptional furniture, including a 15th century Virgin, rediscovered in 1895, and a Baroque organ of 1710. The stained glass windows, statues (like St.Georges terrorizing the dragon) and ex-votos, like the model ship offered in 1750, bear witness to its artistic richness. Local granite stones, bleached with lime, contrast with the dark woodwork of the choir, creating a solemn atmosphere.

The legend tells us that the Virgin Mary chose this place by throwing a ball from the sky, explaining her name, Quelven, which would evoke a "sacred hill" or a "white sanctuary" in Breton. The site, linked to popular beliefs such as the mell benniget (Blessed Maillet of Ankou), remains a high place of devotion, despite declining attendance since the 21st century.

Architecturally, the chapel is distinguished by its southern façade with its worked gables, its fantastic gargoyles and its three-sided bedside inspired by the school of Beaumanoir. The bell tower, although rebuilt lower than originally, still dominates the landscape. The classified elements, such as the fountain (1925) and the Scala Sancta (1929), highlight its heritage importance.

Today, the forgiveness of Quelven perpetuates unique rites, such as the procession of the opening Virgin and the blessing of the tantad weaves, a lucky bearer for pilgrims. Although less frequented than in the past, the site remains a symbol of the Breton faith, mixing history, art and popular traditions.

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