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Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The church of Saint Mathurin de Moncontour, dedicated to Saint Mathurin, finds its origins in the sixteenth century, with its oldest parts (northwestern side and door) dating from this period. The bell tower, destroyed in 1584, was rebuilt between 1584 and 1587, while a low side was added in 1620. The building underwent major changes in the 17th and 18th centuries, including the reconstruction of the façade in 1786 according to the plans of architect Antoine Guiber. These transformations reflect the evolution of the liturgical and aesthetic needs of the local community.

The church was listed as a historic monument in 1889, recognizing its exceptional heritage value. It houses six glass windows built between 1520 and 1540, some of which are dated precisely (1537 for the life of Saint Yves, 1538 for Saint Barbe). These stained glass windows, inspired by Rennes or Dutch, illustrate religious scenes and the lives of saints, such as Saint Mathurin, Saint Yves or the tree of Jesse. Repaired at the end of the 16th century (1588, 1599), they testify to Breton glass art of the Renaissance.

Beyond its architecture, the church plays an active cultural role, hosting each year concerts organised by Jean-Pierre Ballon for the benefit of the association of friends of the organ. These events are part of a local tradition of heritage preservation, as evidenced by historical studies conducted by experts such as René Couffon or Françoise Gatouillat. The building, owned by the municipality, remains a place of worship and memory for the inhabitants of Moncontour.

The available sources, including Wikipedia and Monumentum, highlight the accuracy of its location (place Penthièvre or 1 Rue du Saint-Sacrement) and its integration into the urban landscape of Moncontour, a municipality of Côtes-d-Armor marked by its medieval and modern history. The protected elements, such as the stained glass windows and the very structure of the church, make it a representative example of Breton religious heritage.

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