Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Saint-Théleau church of Landaul, located in Morbihan, finds its origins in the 15th century as a cemetery chapel dedicated to Notre-Dame de Bon-Secours. Built around 1450, it became a parish church in 1863 after the demolition of the old church of Landaul in 1862. Its western portal, typical of the country, with doors paired under an arcade, was modified in the 19th century to keep only one opening, while preserving decorative elements such as foliage rinsels and basket handles.

The present building is the result of a major expansion in 1860-1863, reusing materials from the former Romanesque parish church, which was heavily remodelled in the 17th and 18th centuries. The Latin cross plan incorporates a medieval nave made of cut stone and a transept added in the 19th century, with corner foothills and committed columns inspired by the 14th century. The square bell tower, raised in slate, dominates the north gable, while the bedside uses carved stones from the old building, some of which carry coats of arms of Brittany.

Classified as a Historical Monument since 18 February 1925 for its western façade, the church preserves traces of its medieval past, like a clogged south door decorated with a spread coat of arms and a Christ on a cross. The 19th century transformations, led by architect Émile Amé and entrepreneur Le Touzé, made it possible to adapt the building to parish needs, while preserving ancient architectural elements. Renovation works in 1925, signed by architect Durocher, concerned plaster vaults and interior coatings.

The history of the church is related to the family of Keramburg, whose coats of arms appear on the facades, and to inscriptions today illegible. The chapel Notre-Dame de Bon-Secours, founded according to tradition by a lady from Kerambourg after a vow, presents a homogeneous style from the end of the 15th century. Its integration as parish church in the 19th century illustrates the evolution of religious and architectural practices in Brittany, between medieval heritage and modern adaptations.

External links