Lavoirs de la Garenne

Lavoirs de la Garenne is a pair of perpendicular buildings roofed with slate and situated along the Marle river in Vannes. Both structures feature timber framing and granite stonework that form the core of the site.

The site was built between 1797 and 1807, then expanded between 1827 and 1831 to serve a growing number of washerwomen in the city. This growth reflected expanding demand for laundry services as the town developed.

The washhouse served as a gathering place for washerwomen until 1951, when local authorities stopped laundry work in the Marle river. Before this change, people relied on the site as part of their daily household routine.

Restoration work between 2005 and 2006 repaired flood damage while preserving the original timber and granite construction. The riverside location means the area can experience flooding during heavy rain or seasonal water level changes.

Chimneys remain visible on the building walls, pointing to former laundry rooms where water was heated for washing clothes. This design detail shows how practical and well-thought-out the facility was when it operated.

Location: Vannes

Made from material: timber framing, slate

Address: Rue porte Poterne

Phone: +33297016000

Website: https://mairie-vannes.fr/lavoirs

GPS coordinates: 47.65559,-2.75556

Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:46