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Saint-Malo Church

4.8
·138 reviews·Dinan, France

A 15th-century Flamboyant Gothic gem in Dinan, Saint-Malo Church captivates with its vibrant stained glass and unique Beaumanoir architectural style.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunny mornings

Best light for stained glass

CrowdLow
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Saint-Malo Church

Best Time

Sunny mornings

Best light for stained glass

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 15th-century Flamboyant Gothic gem in Dinan, Saint-Malo Church captivates with its vibrant stained glass and unique Beaumanoir architectural style.

4.8
(138 reviews)

"The stained-glass windows are particularly lovely, their colors contrasting beautifully with the walls."

Vertical photo
TIP

☀️ Visit on a sunny day

The stained glass truly shines with natural light. Aim for a clear sky to see the colors pop!

💰 Donations appreciated

Entry is free, but consider a small donation to help maintain this beautiful sacred space.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Stained Glass Windows

Stained Glass Windows

Interior

Marvel at the vibrant, colorful stained glass telling the history of Dinan, illuminated by sunlight.

Flamboyant Gothic Architecture

Flamboyant Gothic Architecture

Exterior and Interior

Admire the intricate Beaumanoir style of this 15th-century masterpiece.

English-Made Organ

English-Made Organ

South Transept

Discover the historic organ with 1,772 pipes, a listed monument.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Saint-Malo Church

To experience the full splendor of Saint-Malo Church's stained glass, aim for a sunny day. Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light, enhancing the vibrant colors. Avoid peak service times if you prefer a quieter visit, though donations are always welcome.

Understanding Saint-Malo Church's Architecture

This 15th-century Catholic church showcases the Flamboyant Gothic style, specifically the Beaumanoir style. Its unique architecture, distinct from many other French churches, is a highlight for visitors interested in historical and artistic details.

Best Times

When
Sunny mornings
Why
Best light for stained glass
Crowd
Low
When
Sunny afternoons
Why
Golden hour glow
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Voici mon itinéraire d’une semaine pour explorer la Bretagne Nord 1. Mont-Saint-Michel (point de départ obligatoire meme si pas tout à fait Bretagne) 2. Saint-Malo, Dinard et la Côte d’Émeraude 3. Dinan et la vallée de la Rance 4. Cap Fréhel et le château de Fort La Latte 5. Côte de Granit Rose 6. Baie de Morlaix (Carantec, château du Taureau et Roscoff) 7. Côte des Abers – Granit blanc et le phar...
@loic.lagarde
7.2K likes • 218.9K views

☀️ Visit on a sunny day

The stained glass truly shines with natural light. Aim for a clear sky to see the colors pop! Reddit

💰 Donations appreciated

Entry is free, but consider a small donation to help maintain this beautiful sacred space. Reddit

A lone stag walks slowly, silently, in Eglise Saint Eustache, France—drawn not by noise, but by stillness. By mystery. Toward the altar. Saint Eustache was a pagan cavalry officer to whom Christ appeared in the form of a deer with a crucifix between its antlers. This led to his conversion. This video speaks without words. A creature of the forest, robed in nature, stepping into the house of God....
catholica_romana
181.7K likes • 2M views
reddit.com

Seeking advice about what to visit in northern France

🕯️ Light a candle

For a few euros, you can light a candle and add to the serene atmosphere. Reddit

☕ Nearby cafes

Plenty of nice cafes are close by for a coffee or lunch break after your visit. Reddit

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Planning a roadtrip through France, any locations I should visit?

Tips

from all over the internet

☀️ Visit on a sunny day

The stained glass truly shines with natural light. Aim for a clear sky to see the colors pop! Reddit

💰 Donations appreciated

Entry is free, but consider a small donation to help maintain this beautiful sacred space. Reddit

🕯️ Light a candle

For a few euros, you can light a candle and add to the serene atmosphere. Reddit

☕ Nearby cafes

Plenty of nice cafes are close by for a coffee or lunch break after your visit. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(138 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Saint-Malo Church for its stunning stained glass windows, which are beautifully illuminated by sunlight and tell the history of Dinan. The unique Flamboyant Gothic architecture, particularly the Beaumanoir style, is also a significant draw. While the interior is somewhat sparse due to historical looting, this allows the architectural beauty and the vibrant glass to shine, creating a majestic and sacred atmosphere.

"Beautiful church with particularly lovely stained glass windows, the colours of which really contrasted with the colours of the walls. Free to visit (around service times) but donations appreciated. You can light a candle for a few euros."

Elizabeth Baker

"Beautiful stained glass windows"

Debbie Hodge

"A new type of architecture as compared to other église in France."

Travelling Hopper

What People Like

Beautiful stained glass
Unique architecture
Sacred atmosphere

What People Dislike

Sparse furnishings

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Saint-Malo Church is located within the medieval city of Dinan. If you are arriving by car, parking is available in designated areas outside the city walls, followed by a walk into the historic center. Public transport options to Dinan include buses and trains, from which you can walk to the church. TikTok

Yes, Dinan is accessible by public transport. Buses and trains connect Dinan to larger cities in the region. Once in Dinan, the church is within walking distance of most central points. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The church is generally open to visitors, especially outside of service times. It's best to check local listings or inquire upon arrival for specific hours, as they can vary. Reddit

No, entry to Saint-Malo Church is typically free. However, donations are greatly appreciated to help with the upkeep of this historic site. Reddit

You can visit during service times, but it's recommended to be respectful of worshippers. For a more leisurely exploration without disruption, visiting outside of mass hours is ideal. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Saint-Malo Church is a prime example of the Flamboyant Gothic style, specifically the Beaumanoir style, dating back to the 15th century. Reddit

The stained glass windows, created by Merkien, are a major highlight. They depict the history of Dinan and are particularly stunning when illuminated by sunlight, creating a beautiful contrast with the interior walls. Reddit

Yes, the church houses a beautiful English-made organ with 1,772 pipes, located in the south transept. The gallery and instrumental section of the organ are listed as historic monuments. Reddit

The interior is described as majestic and beautiful, with a somewhat sparse appearance due to historical looting, which accentuates the architecture. It's considered a sacred and peaceful place by visitors. Reddit

Generally, photography is allowed for personal use, but it's always courteous to be mindful of services and other visitors. Avoid flash photography during services. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Absolutely! The area surrounding Saint-Malo Church, particularly within the medieval city of Dinan, is dotted with charming cafes and restaurants offering local cuisine. Reddit

You can find a variety of French specialties, from light snacks and coffee at cafes to more substantial meals at traditional bistros and restaurants. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The interior, especially when sunlight streams through the stained glass, is breathtaking. The exterior architecture and the magnolia tree in front also make for great shots. Instagram

Yes, photography for personal use is generally permitted. However, be respectful of ongoing services and avoid using flash, which can be disruptive. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Saint-Malo Church offers a visually engaging experience for families. The vibrant stained glass windows are often a hit with children, who can be fascinated by the colors and the stories they tell. Encourage them to spot different figures or scenes within the glass. The historic organ can also spark curiosity about music and old instruments. Reddit

While the church itself is a place for quiet reflection, the surrounding medieval city of Dinan provides plenty of opportunities for family-friendly exploration. Nearby cafes offer kid-friendly snacks, and the general atmosphere of the old town can be an adventure in itself. Remember to keep voices low inside the church and explain its sacred nature to children beforehand.

🏛️ History & Architecture Enthusiasts

For those passionate about history and architecture, Saint-Malo Church is a must-see. Its designation as a 15th-century Catholic church in the Flamboyant Gothic style, specifically the Beaumanoir style, makes it a significant site for understanding regional architectural evolution. Pay close attention to the intricate stonework, the vaulting, and the overall layout that distinguishes it from other French cathedrals. Reddit

The English-made organ is another point of historical interest, being a listed monument. The sparse interior, while a result of unfortunate historical events, allows for a clear appreciation of the structural elements and the building's original design. The narrative stained glass windows also offer a glimpse into the historical context and local legends of Dinan.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Beaumanoir Style: A Gothic Gem

Saint-Malo Church is a significant example of the Beaumanoir style, a regional variation of Flamboyant Gothic architecture prevalent in Brittany. This style is characterized by its intricate tracery, elaborate vaulting, and a sense of verticality that draws the eye upwards. The construction of the church began in May 1490, as noted by an inscription within the building, marking it as a product of late medieval architectural innovation. The overall impression is one of delicate stonework and soaring spaces, a testament to the craftsmanship of the era. Reddit

Visitors often remark on the church's distinctiveness compared to other French churches, highlighting its unique regional character. The sparse furnishings, a result of historical looting, paradoxically enhance the appreciation of the interior's architectural beauty. This allows the structural elements and the play of light to take center stage, offering a contemplative experience for those who visit. Reddit

Illuminated History: The Stained Glass

The stained glass windows of Saint-Malo Church are a major draw, celebrated for their vibrant colors and narrative storytelling. Created by the artist Merkien, these windows don't just add beauty; they serve as a visual chronicle of Dinan's history. When sunlight penetrates the glass, it bathes the interior in a kaleidoscope of hues, creating a truly magical and awe-inspiring atmosphere. The contrast between the vivid colors of the glass and the stone walls is frequently mentioned by visitors as a particularly striking feature. Reddit

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, the windows offer a unique educational opportunity, allowing visitors to learn about the town's past through art. The quality of the light is paramount to experiencing these windows fully, making sunny days the ideal time for a visit. This emphasis on light and color is a hallmark of Gothic ecclesiastical art, and Saint-Malo Church executes it beautifully. Reddit

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