Attractions and Places To See around Melrand - Top 20

The term "basilica," used above by Vincent Reboul, can have two different meanings for places of worship: + First, as an architectural style: In the Roman Empire, basilicas were secular buildings (market halls or courtrooms); the early Christian era partially adopted this architectural style and, for this purpose, also the term "basilica." + Second, "basilica minor" is an honorary title for special places of worship throughout the world (regardless of the aforementioned architectural style), which has been personally awarded by the Pope since the 18th century.

Although I often stop in churches or chapels on my walks (if the door is not locked), I have never come across a place of worship that is dedicated to the patronage of Saint-NICODEME. The person of Nicodemus takes us far back to the Holy Land in Jesus' time; he is mentioned several times by at least one of the four evangelists. I did some more research this morning: In his version of the "Good News" (this is the meaning of the word "gospel"), John describes the encounter of a Nicodemus, a scribe and member of the Jewish High Council, who visits Jesus at night and has a discussion with him about faith (John 3:1-21). Later, at the meeting of the High Council, he speaks in Jesus' favor: "But Nicodemus, one of their own, who had previously visited Jesus, said to them, 'Does our law condemn a man before it has examined him and found out what he does?'" (John 7:50-51). After the crucifixion, it is Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus who bury the body with dignity (John 19:38-42).

A railway bridge over the Blavet that leads directly into a tunnel. There is only freight traffic here. At around 35km, this was half the distance from Pontivy to Lorient for us.

This chapel is so imposing in its dimensions and importance that it is known here as the Basilica. It is a marvel of 15th century architecture which features numerous gargoyles and a 70 meter high bell tower. All in pure Breton granite.

This curved section of the famous Nantes-Brest canal lets you discover the richness of the banks of the Blavet, which flows into the Lorient estuary in Morbihan. You can see that its bed is mainly artificial, and that its course is regulated by an ingenious system of locks. Slightly to the north of Mûr-de-Bretagne, the Guerlédan dam abruptly interrupts its course, thus giving birth to the largest artificial lake in Brittany, the Lac de Guerlédan. The gravelly surface is pleasant for both touring bikes, gravel and even road bikes. I am personally charmed by the melody of the tires on the gravel, so this portion is conducive to meditation and relaxation for me. A real moment of vacation!

The 470,000 line passes over the Blavet and up the hill through a tunnel and a beautiful bridge, wide enough to be taken on foot without risk. This line is currently only used for freight (cereals) but was used for travelers until 1960 (occasionally between 1951 and 1960).

Magnificent chapel decorated with stone lace, in a green setting, surrounded by several fountains.

Just before arriving in Pontivy the river Blavet crashes down a wide cascade, while the canal is channelled left through a lock. Pedestrians and bikers can cross the narrow metal walkway across the barrage and the locks to shortcut to the other side.