The Abbey Church of St-Gildas de Rhuys
The abbey church of Saint-Gildas-de-Rhuys, an architectural gem dating from the 6th century, tells a fascinating story of resilience and influence. Founded by the Scottish monk Gildas at the request of the Count of Vannes, it has undergone several phases of development over the centuries.
Monument
Rebuilt in the Romanesque style in the 11th century by the monks of Fleury Abbey, then renovated in the 17th century by the congregation of monks of Saint-Maur, the abbey church was classified as a historic monument in the 19th century. This status allowed it to span more than 15 centuries of Breton history, from Breton migrations to the Viking invasions, including the influence of the Dukes of Brittany, the War of Succession and the French Revolution.
An economic pool of the Rhuys peninsula
The abbey was a nerve center in the region, with monks actively participating in forest clearing and salt production. Their influence extended as far as the Glénan archipelago in Finistère, of which they claimed ownership. The prestige of Saint Gildas and the miracles attributed to him contributed to the reputation of the place, attracting many pilgrims who came to venerate his relics.
Although its current appearance only partially reflects its central role in the economic and cultural life of the Rhuys peninsula since its foundation, the abbey remains an exceptional testimony to regional history and a rare example of Romanesque art. in Brittany. Open every day to visitors, it invites you on a journey through the centuries, following in the footsteps of illustrious figures such as Abelard, who was once the abbot of this building steeped in history.
