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Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Notre-Dame-de-Carmes chapel, located in the village of Carmès 2 km from Neulliac (Morbihan), is a Latin-shaped Catholic building built mainly of granite and shale. Partly dating from the 15th century (nef, transept, bell tower-porch bearing the date of 1521), it was profoundly remodeled in the 18th century: recast vault, extended choir of an axial sacristy, and enriched interior decor. His name, often mistakenly associated with the Carmelites, would come from the Breton Car ar maez ("field domain"). The chapel benefited from the protection of Rohan's family, which explains the richness of his furniture and paintings.

The interior decor, classified as Historical Monument since 1980 with the fountain and sacristy, includes an oil-painted panel by La Palme in 1705, completed in 1778 by Deduy and restored in the 19th century. The sixteen panels illustrate the mysteries of the Rosary and the life of Christ, surmounted by evangelist portraits and church reformers. The chapel once housed the brotherhoods of the Souls of Purgatory and Scapular, and its annual forgiveness in August still attracts faithful. Its bell tower, surmounted by a slate arrow, and its polygonal staircase turret testify to its hybrid architecture, mixing medieval and classical styles.

The murals, partially signed La Palme (1705), narrate key episodes of the life of the Virgin and Christ. The south porch, covered with portraits of the apostles, and the east door with broken arches decorated with pamps reflect the influence of local workshops. The works of the 18th century (recast of the crusillons and choir in 1768, high parts of the bell tower) marked its evolution, while the modern restorations (1986-1990 by the François Bailly workshop) preserved this heritage. Its generation-deformed name and Rohan-related history make it a symbol of Breton heritage.

The chapel, owned by the municipality of Neulliac, is a remarkable example of polylithic religious art in Brittany. Its Latin cross plan, its length of 33 meters, and its square granite tower make it an imposing building. The materials used — pale blue shale, Pontivy granite, brioverons — illustrate local resources. Classified for its painted decorations and fountain, it remains a place of devotion and celebration, especially during its summer forgiveness, perpetuating a tradition several times centenary.

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