Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

Callac Castle, located in Plumelec, Morbihan, came into being in the 10th century when a first building was erected to replace a primitive wooden castle destroyed by the Normans. This site, located on an ancient Roman way, was first a medieval mansion (XII century) owned by Olivier de Callac, before being destroyed during the War of Succession of Brittany. The present castle, rebuilt in the 14th century, underwent major changes until the 17th century, when it adopted the comfort standards of the time, with works completed in 1693. It was the seat of a seigneury with full judicial rights, raised in barony in 1645 by Louis XIV for the family of Rogier.

Passed into the hands of several noble families (Clair-Fontaine, Le Forestier, Guemadeuc, Du Cleuz), the castle housed refractory priests and caulian leaders, such as Georges Cadoudal, on the eve of the French Revolution. In the 19th century, it was divided between two heirs in 1823, before being reunified in 2000 after decades of fragmentation. During the Second World War, he served as an allied headquarters during the battle of the maquis of Saint-Marcel, becoming a strategic place for the paratroopers of the Resistance.

Architecturally, the castle preserves a 14th century tower, symbol of the original mansion, and a north wing transformed in the 15th century with four round towers in defensive style. The east wing, dating from the 16th century, incorporates Renaissance elements, while the large living room, classified as Historic Monument in 1971, houses a painted ceiling from the early 17th century. The commons, organized around a forecourt, and the outdoor terraces (17th century) complete this complex, now partially accessible at heritage events.

Protected since 1971 (classification of facades, roofs and painted living room; inscription of communes and gate), the castle benefited from major restorations in the early 2000s to remedy its state of disrepair. Although generally closed to the public because of the works, it opens exceptionally during Heritage Days or local initiatives, perpetuating its link with Breton history, from medieval times to Liberation.

External links