Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

Kergrist Castle, located in Ploubezre in the Côtes-d'Armor, has its origins in the 15th century with the construction of a Breton Renaissance mansion. This first building, commissioned by Jehan de Kergrist and his wife Gillette le Cozic, consists of an octagonal tower and two houses. A second tower, larger, was added in the 16th century, reflecting the family's prosperity. The mansion, typical of the Trégor, includes a vaulted passage leading to a closed vegetable garden.

In the 17th century, the estate passed to Kergariou through the marriage of Marie de Kergrist with Jonathas de Kergariou. A classical façade is erected in the east, accompanied by a double-flyed staircase leading to a French garden. The southern facade, more clean, is inspired by this style. In the 18th century, the Barbier de Lescoët, allied with the Kergariou, modernized the castle, but the French Revolution (1792) led to its fragmentation, looting and abandonment.

In 1867, Charles and Julien Huon de Penanster bought and restored the estate in a 17th century spirit, incorporating woodwork from Beauport Abbey and paintings from Rubens and Giordano. The gardens, renovated by Charles (passionate landscape art), combine French, English and Renaissance styles. The St. Lawrence Chapel, the stables and a water mill (1759) complete the whole. Ranked a historic monument in 1926, the castle now houses exhibitions and cultural events.

The name Kergrist, of Breton origin (ker for "house" and grist, mutation of "Christ"), evokes a "house of Christ", emphasizing its status as noble lordship. Leguer, a salmon river, borders the 4 hectare park, where centuries-old trees remain despite the 1987 storm. The coat of arms of the Kergrist (gold to a crescent of sand) and the Huon de Penanster (silver to three gules) adorn the facades.

The Huon de Penanster, owners since 1867, marked the history of the castle. Charles (1832–1901), MP and Senator, and his wife Claire (1849–1927), founder of the Petit Écho de la Mode, restored the estate and enriched its collections. Their descendant Régis created the Jardin des Roches in the 20th century, while the castle was used as a setting for filming (films, clips, shows).

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