Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

These two houses, located 31 rue Saint-Guenhaël in Vannes, form an elongated architectural complex built between the 15th and 16th centuries. The first, made of wood with corbellation, rests on a vaulted cellar and has three levels, while the second, partly made of stone, has a symmetrical structure with an axial staircase which is now gone. Their interior distribution reveals ancient chimneys, including one dated from the 16th century and another potentially from the late 15th century, as well as carved beams ceilings.

The archives mention these houses as early as 1455-1458 in the annuitant of the Ducal estate of Vannes, under the name of La Buanderie, with a appentis. They were grouped before 1677, when they belonged to Jean Goualesdre, notary royal and prosecutor. A gallery, attested in 1677, linked the two buildings above a lane that is now extinct, parallel to Rue Saint-Guenael. This alley, filled before 1677, is still visible via traces in the south and west walls.

In the 17th century, the second house was raised from two levels of wood, as confirmed by a 1719 report after its sale to Sieur Le Verger du Teno. At that time, the premises housed several tenants, including a cabaretier. Subsequent modifications include the laying of a front in 1844, cement coatings in the 20th century imitating wood panels, and a total reconstruction of the old courtyard. Modern stairs replace originals, while remains of chimneys, including a possible 16th century, remain.

Ranked as a Historic Monument in 1933 for their facades and roofs, these houses illustrate the evolution of the urban habitat valveais, blending residential, artisanal (teaching) and commercial (cabaret) functions. Their structure reflects the constructive techniques of Breton, with successive adaptations to the needs of the owners, local notables like Goualesdre to the merchants of the eighteenth century.

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