Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The chapel Saint-Quirin de Brech, located at the place called Saint-Guérin in Morbihan, is built in 1676 in a classic rural architectural style. It replaces an earlier building whose date remains unknown. Its rectangular plan, flat bedside and broken roof with discovered gables make it a rare example of Breton chapel of that time. The West Gable carries the weapons of Sebastien de Robien, lord of Kerivalan, and his wife, suggesting their role in his reconstruction. The south gate, with chamfered claws, could come from the old chapel.

The chapel is dedicated to an uncertain saint: Saint Quirin, Saint Guenin, or a Gallo-Roman divinity like Quirinus, in connection with the ancient occupation of the site. Nearby, the Saint Quirin fountain (17th century, restored in 1890) was a place of devotion where pilgrims, suffering from fevers or rheumatism, washed and drank its water to obtain miraculous healings. A book of miracles (1670–70) lists 81 healing accounts, testifying to the importance of the sanctuary before its decline.

Classified as a Historic Monument since 9 September 1993, the chapel is distinguished by its altarpiece and its square bell tower surmounted by an arrow. The Masons Estienne François and Jean Touareg participated in its construction. Owned by the commune, it illustrates the religious heritage of Brittany and its anchor in the popular practices of the Ancien Régime.

External links