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Origin and history

Saint-Louis-Marie-Grignion-de-Montfort Church is a Catholic religious building located in the heart of Montfort-sur-Meu, Ille-et-Vilaine. Built on an eminence corresponding to an ancient feudal motte, it dominates the village and is part of a landscape marked by the medieval history of the site. Its architecture combines neoclassical and italianist influences, with a bell tower shaped like a campanile housing a statue of Louis-Marie Grignion de Montfort, emblematic figure of Breton Catholicism.

The building was built in two separate fields. The first, conducted between 1848 and 1851 by entrepreneur Peschard under the direction of architect Charles Langlois, is characterized by a sober and classic style. The second, completed between 1884 and 1886 by the brothers Jules and Henri Mellet, adopted a more ostentatious style, especially for the main facade, inspired by neoclassicism and Italian models. The interior decor, partially disappeared, included paintings by Félix Jobbé-Duval or Antoine Chalot, depicting biblical scenes such as Theologal Vertus and God the Father worshipped by angels.

The church was fully registered as historical monuments by order of 3 May 2013. Its Latin cross plan, its unique nave and its dogive vaults reflect a synthesis of 19th century architectural currents. The choice of its location, on an ancient feudal motte, underscores the desire to link religious heritage with local medieval history, while affirming a strong Breton and Catholic identity.

Historical sources, such as the works of F.L.-E. Oresve or Édouard Vigolant, underline its importance in the history of Montfort-sur-Meu. The building embodies both a spiritual heritage, linked to the devotion to Saint Louis-Marie Grignion de Montfort, and a witness to the architectural evolutions of Brittany in the 19th century, between local tradition and European influences.

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