Abbaye Saint-Gildas Saint-Gildas-de-Rhuys

Abbaye Saint-Gildas is a Romanesque abbey built from gneiss stone with radiating chapels and a northern transept that displays the refined design of the 11th century. The building's structure combines these architectural elements into a compact religious space of notable proportions.

The abbey began in the 6th century when Saint Gildas established it after the Count of Vannes asked him to do so. Monks from Fleury Abbey later carried out major rebuilding work that shaped the structure we see today.

The church holds the remains of Breton saints, including Saint Gildas and Saint Goustan, figures whose veneration shaped local religious practice over the centuries. The carved capitals with geometric and plant motifs reveal the craftsmanship monks brought to their everyday surroundings.

The site is open to visitors daily and invites you to walk through the rooms and around the exterior walls. It is wise to wear sturdy shoes, as you will encounter uneven historic stone surfaces throughout.

The philosopher Pierre Abelard served as abbot from 1125 to 1133 and eventually left after clashing with monks he felt lacked discipline. His time here marked a rare moment when a major medieval thinker directed this place.

Location: Saint-Gildas-de-Rhuys

Architectural style: Romanesque architecture

Website: https://abbaye-de-rhuys.fr

GPS coordinates: 47.50000,-2.83972

Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:41