Église Saint-Gildas Auray
A historic Breton church in Auray, famed for its unique cube-like bell tower and beautiful 19th-century stained glass.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Free organ concerts!
Église Saint-Gildas Auray
Best Time
Free organ concerts!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Breton church in Auray, famed for its unique cube-like bell tower and beautiful 19th-century stained glass.
"Its remarkable bell tower dominates the town, a silhouette evoking permanence through time."
🎯 Free Summer Concerts
Catch free 45-minute organ concerts every Monday morning in July and August .
📸 Capture the Tower
The unique bell tower is a photographer's dream, especially with changing light .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Unique Bell Tower
A striking, cube-stacked tower that dominates the Auray skyline, a true Breton architectural marvel.
Magnificent Organ
An impressive organ that fills the church with sound, often featured in free summer concerts.
19th-Century Stained Glass
Beautiful stained-glass windows that cast colorful light, adding a serene ambiance to the interior.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Avoid peak tourist times to fully appreciate the church's serene atmosphere and architectural details.Architectural Gem
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Summer Concerts
Catch free 45-minute organ concerts every Monday morning in July and August.
📸 Capture the Tower
The unique bell tower is a photographer's dream, especially with changing light.
🤫 Embrace the Silence
Experience the profound peace and quiet within this historic Breton church.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Summer Concerts
Catch free 45-minute organ concerts every Monday morning in July and August.
📸 Capture the Tower
The unique bell tower is a photographer's dream, especially with changing light.
🤫 Embrace the Silence
Experience the profound peace and quiet within this historic Breton church.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Église Saint-Gildas Auray for its stunning architecture, particularly its unique bell tower and beautiful interior. The free summer organ concerts are a highlight, offering a delightful auditory and visual experience. While generally well-received, some visitors note that opening hours can be inconsistent, and it's best to confirm them locally.
"Gorgeous church."
Romain LM
"Silence"
Daniel Margus
"Église Saint-Gildas – Place Gabriel Deshayes, Auray
Au cœur de la ville, dans le prolongement de la place Gabriel Deshayes, se dresse l’église Saint-Gildas, incontournable dans le paysage alréen depuis plusieurs siècles. Son remarquable clocher domine la ville et les environs, avec une silhouette évoquant un empilement de cubes décroissants qui lui confère une impression de permanence dans l’espace et dans le temps. De l’aurore au crépuscule, et selon les caprices du climat, il ne se montre jamais tout à fait pareil.
Cette église remarquable m’a inspiré une création dans le cadre du projet La Ville en Points de Fuite, où j’explore les formes architecturales et la géométrie urbaine à travers la photographie et l’art numérique.
© T. Guyard – Licence CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 – tguyard-photo-geometrie.art"
Thierry Guyard (tguyard)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The church is located in the heart of Auray, on Place Gabriel Deshayes. It's easily accessible on foot if you're exploring the town center. Parking is available nearby, though it can be busy during peak season.
While the main entrance is generally accessible, it's advisable to check in advance for specific accessibility details regarding ramps or any potential steps inside the church.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the church itself is typically free. However, special events or concerts may have separate ticketing or donation requests.
Opening hours can vary, but churches are generally open during daylight hours. It's best to check local listings or inquire locally for the most up-to-date information, especially if you plan to attend a service or concert.
The summer organ concerts held on Monday mornings are usually free to attend, offering a wonderful opportunity to experience the church's acoustics.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find a magnificent organ, a majestic choir, and beautiful 19th-century stained-glass windows. The ornate pulpit is also a notable feature.
Photography is generally permitted inside churches for personal use, but it's always respectful to be discreet and avoid flash photography, especially during services or concerts.
A visit can range from a quick stop to admire the architecture (30 minutes) to longer if you attend a concert or wish to soak in the peaceful atmosphere (1-2 hours).
The church's bell tower is a distinctive example of Breton architecture, with a unique stacked cube design that has stood for centuries.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon light can beautifully illuminate the church and its unique bell tower.
Yes, the stained-glass windows, the organ, and the pulpit offer excellent interior photography subjects. Be mindful of lighting conditions and other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Inside, the stained-glass windows can be a colorful distraction, and the sheer size of the organ can be impressive. Keep in mind that it's a quiet place, so encourage respectful behavior. Consider timing your visit with the free Monday morning organ concerts in summer, as the music might engage older children.📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Inside, focus on the intricate details of the organ, the vibrant colors of the 19th-century stained-glass windows, and the ornate pulpit. The church's setting in the town square also provides context for wider architectural shots.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvels of Saint-Gildas
This architectural feature is not just visually appealing but also a testament to the historical building techniques and aesthetic sensibilities of the region.Inside, the church houses a magnificent organ and a majestic choir, which are often highlighted by visitors. The 19th-century stained-glass windows are another significant feature, bathing the interior in a kaleidoscope of colors and contributing to the serene atmosphere. The ornately carved pulpit whispers tales of past sermons and adds to the historical richness of the space.
For those interested in photography, the interplay of light through the stained glass and the imposing structure of the organ provide ample opportunities. The church's location in the heart of Auray also means it's easily integrated into a broader exploration of the town's historic center.
Musical Heritage: The Organ Concerts
Performers often feature classical pieces, including works by renowned composers like Johann Sebastian Bach.These concerts are not only a treat for the ears but also a chance to appreciate the church's interior in a lively yet respectful setting. The performances are a continuation of a tradition that brings music and culture to the heart of Auray, attracting both locals and tourists. It's a perfect example of how historical sites can remain vibrant and engaging for contemporary audiences.
Attending one of these concerts is a highly recommended experience, offering a unique perspective on the church's role in the community and its enduring appeal. It's a chance to pause, listen, and be moved by the power of music within a sacred and beautiful space.
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