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Lamballe's history spans over 15 centuries.  Former capital of Penthièvre, it has preserved a wide and diverse collection of heritage buildings, many of which are classified Historic Monuments
 

Saint-Martin Church

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This is the oldest building in Lamballe, with elements dating back to the 10th century.   Not to be missed: the sculpted wooden porch, formerly part of the ancient 10th-century priory.  The Saint-Martin quarter prospered in the 11th century with the arrival of a religious order commanded by the Counts of Penthièvre; Saint-Martin was the parochial church. 
The church is currently closed for security reasons.  The porch can still be admired,  and the enclosure, with its century-old trees, is a perfect haven for relaxation and reverie. 

 

Saint-Jean Church

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Built in the 15th century within the city walls, this was the parochial church for the fortified city.  Many changes have occurred over the centuries: 15th-century arcades and western porch, 17th-century octagonal steeple. 

The organ, built in 1777 and renovated 1989, is a designated Historic Monument.  Regularly played during concerts, it can also be heard each summer for the Jeudis Lamballais festivities. 
Two elegant retables, didactic stained-glass windows, unique contemporary Stations of the Cross. 
Useful Information:
Open daily from 9:00 am to 6:30 pm, except for Sunday mass at 11:00 am
Accessibility : with assistance (steep ramp)

 

La Maison du Bourreau (The Executioner's House)
 

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Located on place du Martray, in the heart of town, this magnificent 15th-century half-timbered house owes its uncanny name to a post card merchant who deformed the owner's name (Bourceau) into something more «dramatic» (bourreau, i.e. executioner).  It became in such ruins that it was almost demolished.  Beautifully restored, it now hosts the Mathurin Méheut Museum and a Museum of Folk Art. On the ground floor, a monumental fireplace and massive beams enhance the beauty of the main hall.

Useful information : Accessible during the Folk Art Museum opening hours.

 

Notre-Dame Collegiate Church
 

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Built as of 1202, the majestic construction was the Dukes of Penthièvre's private chapel.  This roman church with Gothic additions hosts a classified Louis XIII organ case, added in 1741 to the 1415 tribune, gift of Marguerite de Clisson.  The Collegiate Church offers testimony to Lamballe's prestigious past as Capital of Penthièvre:  One can only imagine what the ramparts and Castle would have been... considering the splendor of this chapel.  Overlooking the city, it offers a magnificent view of the surrounding area.
Useful Information:
Daily guided visits in the summer; group visits available during the rest of the year, reservations required ($)
Accessibility :  with assistance (threshold) 

 

Le château de la Moglais
 

Primarily 18th century with Regence moldings and sculpted ceilings, Le château de la Moglais is a designated Historic Site. 

See Château de la Moglais