Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The houses 27 and 29 rue Bourg-aux-Moines, located in Vitré (Ille-et-Vilaine), form a rare architectural complex dating from the 15th, 16th and 17th centuries. Their particularity lies in their large central room in Renaissance style, inspired by manorial models but adapted to urban homes. Unlike comparable houses in Dinan or the North-Finistry, this room is covered with "French-style" floors rather than left open under frames. A hopper was later added to create zenithal lighting, an exceptional arrangement for the time. These transformations illustrate the evolution of Breton urban habitats, where the low-rise rooms under the structure were gradually planted in the 16th century.

The construction of these houses began in 1411, followed by a doubling of their surface in 1546, then a realignment and a probable elevation in 1862. Originally, they probably formed only one dwelling, built by a hemp cloth merchant. This flourishing trade, linked to trade between Brittany, England, the Netherlands and the New World, reflects Vitré's economic prosperity at this time. The two houses, which have been fully protected since 2021, bear witness to the adaptation of the Breton trading elites to the architectural and commercial changes of modern times.

The whole underwent major transformations in the 19th and 20th centuries, partially altering its original structure. Despite these changes, the houses retain characteristic elements of their primary function, such as the high and ceiling central room, designed to impress customers and business partners. Their inscription in the title of Historical Monuments in 2021 highlights their heritage value, both architectural (renaissance flooring, light hopper) and historical (witnessing of the Breton canvas trade).

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