Basilica of St. Ann of Auray

The Basilica of Saint Ann of Auray is a church building in Renaissance Revival style located in Brittany, featuring a prominent 75-meter bell tower. Its interior contains marble elements donated by Pope Pius IX and sculptures created by the artist Falguière that enhance the architectural composition.

In 1624, Bishop Sebastien de Rosmadec authorized the construction of a chapel at this location following reported apparitions of Saint Anne to a local farmer named Yves Nicolazic. This chapel gradually developed into a major center of pilgrimage and worship in the region.

The basilica serves as the center of an annual pilgrimage on July 26 known as the Grand Pardon of Saint Anne, drawing many worshippers for religious services. The celebration mixes prayer with local Breton customs as visitors gather to share meals and participate in community festivities.

Visitors can explore the grounds daily, with wheelchair access provided throughout the religious complex for easier movement. The site offers space for prayer and walking, with areas for quiet reflection near the chapel and shrine.

The basilica houses a thirteenth-century relic believed to be from Saint Anne, originally brought from Jerusalem and donated to the site through the generosity of Queen Anne of Austria and King Louis XIII of France. This precious object remains an important reason why pilgrims visit the location.

Location: Sainte-Anne-d'Auray

Inception: 1872

Architects: Édouard Deperthes

Architectural style: Renaissance Revival architecture

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

Part of: shrine of Sainte-Anne d'Auray

Address: 9 Rue de Vannes, 56400 Sainte-Anne-d'Auray, France

Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday 08:30-19:00

Phone: +33297576880

Website: http://sainteanne-sanctuaire.com

GPS coordinates: 47.70417,-2.95359

Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:03