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Origin and history

The Saint-Fiacre Chapel of Melrand is a Catholic religious building located in Morbihan, Brittany. Built around 1460, it is associated with the marriage of Marie de Bretagne and Pierre de Rohan, although this bond remains symbolic. Its architecture, typical of the late Middle Ages, is distinguished by a flat bedside, a unique nave without downsides or transept, and an openworked wooden skirt decorated with paintings depicting the apostles and the Mass of Saint Gregory. The remains of a 16th century mural dedicated to the life of Saint Fiacre remain on the north wall of the choir.

The chapel is accompanied by a fountain of contemporary devotion, classified with it as historical monuments since 2003. Nearby, two other fountains, added in the 19th century, complete this religious ensemble. The 17th century altarpiece, installed against the windowmaster, bears witness to a liturgical evolution after the initial construction. The building, in granite, has corner foothills and a central frame bell, characteristic of the Breton chapels of that time.

The site, owned by the commune of Melrand, illustrates the importance of places of pilgrimage in Brittany, where Saint Fiacre, patron of gardeners, was particularly venerated. The chapel and its fountain, still visible today, reflect both medieval religious art and local devotee practices, marked by processes and rituals linked to water, symbol of purification. The southeastern, partially closed locus, and fragmentary murals recall the transformations of the building over the centuries.

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