Morbihan, one of the departments of Brittany, is located on the Atlantic coast of France. It enjoys a temperate climate, ideal for a stay in nature. As far as its history is concerned, it is rich and interesting since it started several millennia ago. Today, there are still many vestiges of the past, making Morbihan a top tourist destination in France. You will therefore not miss places to explore during your stay in our gîte/chambre d'hôte.
Antiquity
From ancient times, the Celts lived in the region, leaving behind many traces of their passage. One of the most famous traces, dating back more than 5000 years according to estimates: Carnac megalithic alignments. The region was also inhabited by the Gauls. Their remains are found through archaeological sites. Then it was the Romans who quickly occupied the area for centuries. During this period, many buildings are still visible today. You can explore bridges and roads, including the famous Roman road linking Vannes to Carhaix
Morbihan in the Middle Ages
Later, in the Middle Ages, the Morbihan is a land of castles and fortresses. There are many castles, such as the castle of Josselin, the castle of Suscinio or the castle of Pontivy, which can still be visited nowadays (here the article on the castles of Morbihan).
The region is also marked by the War of Succession of Brittany in the middle of the 14th century. This war opposed the supporters of the Dukes of Brittany to those of the King of France. The War of Succession of Brittany, or War of the Two Jeannes, as it is called, is one of the secondary wars that took place during the Hundred Years War.
During this period of the Middle Ages, Brittany, like France, is also strongly Christianized.
During antiquity, Brittany, inhabited by Gauls, practiced an animist form of religion, centered on the cult of nature and ancestors. It was from the 5th century, with the arrival of the Bretons in Armoric, that Christianity began to develop. The Morbihan is then the spectacle of the construction of many religious buildings.
One can specifically mention the Basilica of St. Anne of Auray, located, as its name indicates, in Auray. It is the largest pilgrimage site in Brittany and the third in France, welcoming nearly 800,000 visitors every year. Guided tours and art exhibitions are organized every summer for curious travellers.
There are also Saint-Pierre de Vannes Cathedral, Notre-Dame-de-la-Tronchaye Chapel and the famous Notre-Dame de Timadeuc Abbey. Closer to the Domaine des Camélias, head to the chapel Saint-Gildas de Bieuzy, inlaid in the mountain. You can visit its sites for free for most, ideal for spending a quiet afternoon.
The Contemporary Age
During the French Revolution, Morbihan was the scene of many peasant revolts, including Chouannerie. It was a civil war between Republicans and Royalists from 1793 to 1800. At the same time, the Breton peasants rebelled against the reforms of the Revolution. The repression is very hard, we execute and remove many Bretons. The Chouannery Museum, explaining these conflicts, is available at the entrance to Quiberon Peninsula. Don't hesitate to take a walk.
In the 19th century, Morbihan experienced strong economic growth, particularly through agriculture and the textile industry. However, the century ended with an economic and social crisis, leading to the emigration of many Britons to other French regions. Some will even emigrate abroad, especially to the United States and Canada: this is the beginning of the American dream.
In the 20th century, the Morbihan was touched by the two world wars. During the First World War, the region was heavily affected by deprivation and many Breton soldiers died on the front.
During World War II, German troops occupied Morbihan for several years. And this, despite the strong resistance of the Breton supporters, before being released in 1944 by the allied forces. A museum of the Resistance is open all year long in St Marcel. It traces the history of resistance in Brittany during the occupation. Do not hesitate to go if you are passionate about history.
Finally, since the end of the war, Morbihan has enjoyed strong economic development, notably through tourism and the establishment of industrial enterprises. Our region is renowned for its cultural richness, its historical and natural heritage, as well as its varied economic activities.
Today, the Morbihan is a dynamic and attractive department, attracting many visitors every year through its tourist sites.
More locally, the Rohan family
This family is a major player in our region and especially in the centre of Morbihan, in the areas of Pontivy, Josselin and of course Rohan. They are part of the local culture. So it's no wonder you hear about it during your visits to our region.
The Rohan family is one of the oldest and most illustrious in France. Originally from Brittany, it derives its name from the town of Rohan, located about twenty minutes from the Domaine des Camélias. Since the Middle Ages, members of this family have played an important role in the history of France.
Over the centuries, the Rohans were given important land and titles. Especially that of Prince of Leon, Duke of Rohan and peer of France.
The Rohan family has also produced several notable personalities. Among them is the Cardinal of Rohan, involved in the case of the Queen's necklace in the 18th century. One can also mention General Josselin de Rohan, who fought during the Napoleonic wars.
Rohan Castle, located in Pontivy, is one of the most famous properties of the Rohan family. Built in the seventeenth century by Cardinal Rohan, it is now open to the public. The Rohan family have built other castles that it still owns. Josselin is also open to visits offering a museum and activities.
Today, the Rohan family still exists and has several branches. Although it no longer plays an important political role, it continues to be active in the cultural and associative field. Especially with the opening of the doors of their castle. So you can visit them to learn more about this family.
Visits to Morbihan near the Domaine des Camélias
Located in Pluméliau-Bieuzy, our cottage and bed & breakfast The Domaine des Camélias is located in the centre of the Morbihan Department. This allows you to have a wide choice of visits and activities of which we come to quote.
Don't hesitate to ask Béatrice, the owner of the premises, who will be happy to advise you on the most pleasant tourist sites in the region, and to welcome you in her cottage or guest rooms between two visits.
You can visit the Facebook and Pinterest page at Domaine des Camélias to find out more!