Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The cross in front of the chapel Saint-Nicolas de Guer is a historic monument inscribed since May 23, 1927. It is distinguished by its style of cemetery cross in banner, with a flored cylindrical barrel, characteristic of the achievements of the 15th–12th centuries. This cross marks the location of the former cemetery of the hamlet of Saint-Nicolas, dependent on the commune of Guer (Morbihan), in Brittany. Its present state is part of a fragile heritage complex, including the neighbouring chapel, whose gable threatens to collapse.

The hamlet of Saint-Nicolas was attested as early as 1137, when Donoald, bishop of Aleth (Saint Malo), ceded the chapel and its outbuildings to the monks of Marmoutier who were established in Josselin. This gift, confirmed by the chaplains Renaud and Simon as well as the clergyman Guillaume, allows the abbey of Marmoutier to acquire the patronage of the church of Guer and the little priory of Saint Nicholas. In the 16th century, this priory was united with that of Saint-Nicolas de Ploërmel, marking a period of beginning and gradual decline of its initial religious role.

The chapel Saint-Nicolas, mentioned in the 12th century, is now at risk. A study for its preservation was launched in 2010 by the Société Archéologique, Genealogique et Historique du Pays de Guer (SAGHPG), in collaboration with the town hall. The cross, on the other hand, symbolizes the funeral and religious heritage of the hamlet, linked to the former Benedictine priory dependent on Saint Martin de Josselin. Its current building could date from a 19th century reconstruction, although its original form dates back to the 15th century.

External links