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Ste-Anne-la-Palud
One of the great attractions of the Brittany calendar is the celebration of a religious festival known as a village pardon, replete with banners, saintly statues, a parade, bishops in attendance, women in folk costume, a feast, and hundreds of attendees. The seaside village of Ste-Anne-la-Palud has one of the finest and most authentic age-old pardons in Brittany, held on the last Sunday in August.
Another celebrated pardon is held in early September some 40 km (25 miles) north of Ste-Anne. Pilgrims come from afar to Le Folgoët, 24 km (15 miles) northeast of Brest, to attend the town's ceremonial procession. Many also drink from the Fontaine de Salaün, a fountain behind the church, whose water comes from a spring beneath the altar. The splendid church, known as the Basilique, has a sturdy north tower that serves as a beacon for miles around and, inside, a rare, intricately carved granite rood screen separating the choir and nave.
Ste-Anne-la-Palud at a Glance
Elsewhere in Brittany
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Travel Deals in Brittany
- Residence Les Villas Thalassa Dinard in May: $207 & Up Expedia
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