Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Haras national d'Hennebont originated in a decree of 1856 authorizing its transfer from Langonnet Abbey, which was poorly served by roads. Inaugurated in 1858 by Napoleon III, he settled on 5 hectares around the Abbey of Joy, an exchange acquired thanks to the Congregation of the Fathers of the Holy Spirit. This stud, designed to modernise Breton equine breeding, becomes a key player in the selection of line and half-blood horses, with stables built to accommodate up to 32 stallions.

Between 1858 and 1900, the stud developed with the addition of forges, additional stables (notably in 1880) and housing for the director. Initially focused on line horses, it gradually integrates breeds such as the Anglo-Normand or the Norfolk Trotter to improve the Breton horse. In 1901, the acquisition of one hectare allowed the construction of new stables (n°5 to 7) and an infirmary, while the staff grew with the arrival of officers and supervisors.

The First World War marked a turning point: the stud maintained its activity despite the mobilization, focusing on artillery horses like the Breton Postman. In the mid-war, it reached its peak with 293 stallions in 1927, becoming the 4th national depot. However, motorization and World War II undermined its role. The site was occupied by the Germans (1940-1944) and served as a depot for ammunition and prisoners' camp, before being released in August 1944 after fighting.

After 1945, the haras adapted to the decline in demand for line horses by turning to equine meat and equestrian sport. In 1964, the creation of the National Hippo Society diversified its activities, with competitions and shows. Ranked a historic monument in 1995, he went under the management of a mixed union in 2007, then was bought by the city of Hennebont and Lorient Agglomeration in 2016 to make it a tourist hub.

Today, the 23-hectare site is home to a horse discovery area, a reactivated forge, a coupled school and events such as the Christmas market (10,000 annual visitors). Although the National Hippo Society closed in 2019, the stud remains a living place, mixing heritage, education and equestrian activities, with over 60,000 visitors per year. Its architecture (32 buildings, including 7 stables) and its park, classified as a protected wooded area, make it a jewel of Breton heritage.

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