Chapelle Sainte-Barbe du Faouët, Gothic chapel in Le Faouët, France
Chapelle Sainte-Barbe du Faouët is a Gothic chapel perched on a rocky outcrop above the Ellé valley, connected by stone staircases with railings leading down to a spring below. The interior features Gothic vaults supported by ribbed arches, displaying the architectural style of the late 1400s.
Construction started in 1489 following Jean de Toulbodou's survival of a lightning strike, one of the founding patrons. The Gothic stone vaults were completed in 1512, establishing the structure that stands today.
The chapel is named after Saint Barbara, protector against lightning, reflecting its origin tied to divine rescue. Visitors notice the heraldic shields of the noble families who sponsored its construction.
Access requires climbing a series of stone steps, so visitors should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for uneven ground. The exposed rocky location means the surroundings can become slippery, especially during wet weather.
A fountain from 1708 sits below the chapel with an interior bench and niche holding a statue of Saint Barbara inside its stone enclosure. This spring once served pilgrims seeking healing through contact with water dedicated to the saint.
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