Quimper, the cultural capital of Brittany, is a must-see destination for travelers in search of authenticity. Nestled in the heart of Finistère, it boasts remarkable architecture. Its mythical roots can be found in the figures of Gradlon the king and Saint Corentin, the city's first bishop. His name adorns Quimper's majestic Gothic cathedral, the famous Cathédrale Saint-Corentin. This jewel ofGothic art is anchored in the center of the old town. The building is surrounded by cobbled streets and half-timbered houses that bear witness to Quimper's flourishing medieval past. Kemper, in Breton, perfectly reflects its unique geographical location. For the town lies at the confluence of two rivers, the Steir and the Odet, which are also joined by the Jet. Inhabited since Antiquity, it prospered in the Middle Ages thanks to its river traffic. This metaphor illustrates this forward-looking city of art and history. It's a place where rivers meet to unite nature and architecture.
A stroll through the old streets reveals stone mansions, and a magical atmosphere emanates from places like Place au Beurre and Rue Kéréon. Quimper is also a city of designers, famous for its Locmaria earthenware and contemporary art. Pascal Jaouen'sembroidery school, with its fashion shows and textile creations, illustrates this artistic frenzy.
The town is also a cultural center, with its Musée des Beaux-Arts, flourishing with works by artists such as Max Jacob and Tal-Coat, and its Art Deco architecture. Are you a keen shopper? Then you'll be delighted by the charming boutiques! Gourmets and epicureans, Quimper is a true paradise for gourmets, with tasty local cuisine: seafood, crêpes and Breton ciders take pride of place in local restaurants, where the fine crêpe is also an unmissable specialty.
Quimper is also a festival: the impressive Triomphe des Sonneurs, the highlight of the Festival de Cornouaille, is not to be missed! And to recharge your batteries, the Breton city offers peaceful gardens and verdant walks to Mont Frugy or the park of Château de Lanniron.
The Quimper tourist guide has selected theRomanesque church of Locmaria, the Chapelle des Jésuites (converted into an auditorium because of its exceptional acoustics) and the historical museums as some of the best places to visit. Quimper, with its three historic cores - the town of the Bishop, the town of the Dukes of Brittany and Locmaria - is a city of history, art and nature.
It is also renowned for its Breton departmental museum. Nestled in the former episcopal palace, it offers a captivating insight into Breton history and culture. Quimper is also famous for its earthenware, an art that has been perpetuated for centuries, and whose masterpieces visitors can admire in the town's many stores and workshops. Surrounded by the magnificent Breton countryside, Quimper is an ideal starting point for discovering the region. The Breton Riviera, sandy beaches and the mysterious and legendary Broceliande forest are all just a stone's throw away. And every summer, the town is transformed into a living stage for Breton culture, with music, dance and traditional costumes. Our Quimper tour guide will help you discover this magnificent, temperamental prefecture! The people of Quimper welcome you with their legendary hospitality and the finest accommodations! Degemer mat!