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Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Morbihan Prefecture, located in Vannes, is an administrative building built in the 19th century to house the prefectural services and residence of the prefect. Inaugurated in 1865 under Napoleon III, it replaced the former Jacobin convent, transformed into a gendarmerie after the Revolution. The building, of Louis XIII style, includes references to the Empire (imperial eagle) and Breton history, with sculptures by Nominoë and Alain Barbetorte, figures of Breton independence. Its U-shaped plan and granite facades make it a typical example of the administrative buildings of the late century.

The surrounding park, designed in 1862 by landscape architect Louis-Sulpice Varé (author of the Bois de Boulogne), combines a five-hectare English garden with a French-style garden redesigned in 1975. The Marle arm, which can be crossed by an orientalising bridge, crosses the estate. Inside, the stone staircase with its wrought iron ramp, parlors and offices reflect a hierarchical organization, marked by events such as the German occupation in 1940 or the visit of General de Gaulle in 1945.

Partly classified as historical monuments since 1975 (facades and roofs), the prefecture also illustrates the urban evolution of Vannes: its construction led to the widening of the Rue du Rouille (current rue du Maréchal Leclerc) and the creation of rue Alain Le Grand. The departmental archives, added in 1920, complement this ensemble, symbol of both central power and Breton identity.

The works, led by the departmental architect Émile Aimé, began in 1863 after a decree of public utility in 1861. The sculptors (Le Merle for the frontons) and artisans (Lefebvre for the ramp) contributed to its ornaments, while landscaper John Wallen built the park between 1863 and 1865. The building also hosted diplomatic events, such as the decoration of the hall of deliberations for the King of Cambodia in 1948 by the painter Bompard.

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