10 December 2023 | Tourism
Locronan, discovering a village in Breton
Locronan is a village in the heart of Brittany, which enchants visitors with its charm and historical heritage. Nestled in the bay of Douarnenez, it is an emblematic village which offers an unforgettable getaway between cobbled streets, half-timbered houses and a truly charming atmosphere.
A real journey through time
Locronan is classified among the “Small Cities of Character”. It's a real journey where you will pass through the gates and immerse yourself in a medieval atmosphere preserved from the 17th century. Granite houses, facades decorated with sculpted details, so many elements which bear witness to the past of this village.
Cobbled streets and lively squares
The pretty streets of Locronan invite you to stroll, where you can enjoy the narrow streets, art galleries, charming cafes. The main square, surrounded by colorful half-timbered houses, offers market activities, regional products and Breton crafts.
Religious and cultural heritage
The Saint-Ronan church, classified as a historic monument which houses an impressive 17th century altarpiece.
Altarpiece*: it is a vertical construction which carries sculpted decorations, sometimes painted, behind the altar table of a religious building.
Celtic Legends
Celtic legends permeate the atmosphere of Locronan. According to legend, Saint-Ronan settled in the region to escape civilization. Locals perpetuate these tales, adding a mystical dimension to the visiting experience.
A festival of charms
More than thirty films have been shot and are set in a unique setting: A Long Engagement Sunday by Jean-Pierre Jeunet, Chouans by Philippe de Broca, Tess by Roman Polanski... the filmmakers and the spectators are seduced by the frame, in its "juice", outside of electrical cables, antennas or red lights.
What are the must-haves?
The Grand'Place, granite residences from the 17th and 18th centuries and adjacent streets. The priory church of Saint-Ronan 15th century. Penity Chapel (15th and 16th century). The monumental Saint-Europe fountain (17th century) The Notre-Dame-de-Bonne-Nouvelle chapel (15th-17th centuries), stained glass windows by A. Manessier.
Around Locronan...
N-D Chapel of Bonne-Nouvelle, Museum of Art and History, Saint-Ronan Church... Or also the Roches du Diable, Douarnenez, the Glénan archipelago, Riec-sur-Bélon.
In Cornwall, behind the scenes of Breton art and crafts
From Quimper to the banks of the Aven, where you can discover the history of this city of Art, along the streets you can stop at Saint-Corentin Cathedral, a jewel of Breton Gothic art. Your journey will continue in Locrona.