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Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Sainte-Barbe chapel, located at the so-called Sainte-Barbe in the commune of Plouharnel (Morbihan), is a 16th century religious building. It is distinguished by its rectangular shape, its foothills adorned with pinnacles, and a square bell tower surmounted by bell towers. Two incomplete statues, whose heads were broken during the Revolution, frame the facade. Inside, a modern window (1979-1980) traces the life of Saint Barbe, while a remarkable credence adorns the choir. The chapel was a key site during the battle of St.Barbe during the expedition of Quiberon (Chouannerie), even serving as an observatory for General Hoche in 1795.

The chapel suffered major damage in 1876, when its interior was completely destroyed. In spite of this, it retains notable architectural elements such as a north door in a broken, moulure arch, topped by an archvolt with hooks, and a stone bench aligned along the north facade. The recently renovated bell tower features a fish-shaped girouette. The association Les Amis de la Chapelle et du site de Sainte-Barbe has conducted an interior restoration between 2018 and 2019, giving life to this heritage classified as a Historic Monument since June 15, 1925.

The site is also marked by its military history: during the Chouannery, the chapel was a strategic point during the Battle of Sainte-Barbe. General Hoche set up an observatory there in 1795 to monitor movements during the Quiberon expedition. Originally, the hamlet where it stands was called Pen er Bloé ("the village at the end of the parish"), highlighting its geographical isolation. Today, the chapel belongs to the commune and remains an architectural and historical testimony of 16th century Brittany.

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