Discover the sanctuary of Sainte-Anne d'Auray, a major pilgrimage site in Brittany
The sanctuary of Sainte-Anne d'Auray is a place strongly marked by spirituality in Southern Brittany.
Just a few kilometers from the pretty medieval town of Auray, Sainte-Anne d'Auray is one of Brittany's most prestigious shrines, honoured by the visit of Pope John Paul II in September 1996. It is also a founding member of the Villes Sanctuaires de France network.
Between 300,000 and 400,000 pilgrims visit the site of the world's only apparition of Saint Anne every year. In the heart of a 7-hectare park, the sanctuary offers several areas of calm and rejuvenation.
The history of the pilgrimage to Sainte-Anne d'Auray
During an apparition, Saint Anne asked Nicolazic to rebuild this primitive chapel. The news spread throughout Brittany and pilgrims set off for Sainte-Anne-d'Auray, resulting in the largest pilgrimage in the region.
In the 19th century, the crowds were so big that the chapel built by Yvon Nicolazic became too small. To solve this problem, the basilica was built between 1865 and 1872 by architect Deperthes.
On July 26th of every year, the sanctuary of Sainte-Anne d'Auray welcomes thousands of people for its Grand Pardon, a spiritual gathering.
The Basilica of Sainte-Anne d'Auray
The visit to the Basilica of Sainte-Anne d'Auray is a highlight for pilgrims and day visitors. It combines Gothic and Renaissance styles.
Inside the Basilica of Sainte-Anne d'Auray, discover the sumptuous stained glass windows reminiscent of the apparitions, the pilgrimage and the life of Sainte-Anne.
The cloister, located behind the basilica, was built in the 17th century by the Carme fathers. It is the oldest monument in the city. Take a look at its exceptional architecture with its collection of votive offerings.
Then, keep on discovering the sanctuary by strolling through the park where other religious monuments stand: the Scala santa, the sailors' stele, and the John Paul II space. The Memorial is a place of remembrance in memory of the 240,000 Bretons who died during the Great War.
In the footsteps of the Way of St. James
A footpath leading to Santiago de Compostela invites you to cross Brec'h towards Sainte-Anne d'Auray. It is 5.5 km long, or about 1 hour, starting from the Saint-Jacques chapel in Brec'h, passing over the Brec'h bridge to reach the sanctuary. A 15.6 km loop also connects Brec'h and Sainte Anne via the village of St Dégan and the Estaing mill.