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Sculptures de Rothéneuf: A Coastal Art Spectacle

Discover the Rochers Sculptés de Rothéneuf: a unique open-air gallery of granite sculptures carved into Brittany's rugged coastline by Abbé Fouré.

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The Sculptures de Rothéneuf are a collection of over 300 granite sculptures carved into the cliffs of Rothéneuf, near Saint-Malo, France. Created by Abbé Fouré between 1894 and 1907, these sculptures depict historical figures, local legends, and biblical scenes, offering a unique open-air art experience that continues to evolve with the tides and sea air.

A brief summary to Sculptures de Rothéneuf

  • Saint-Malo, FR

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes suitable for walking on uneven and potentially slippery coastal terrain.
  • Check the tide times before visiting, as the sculptures are located on the shoreline and are best viewed during low tide.
  • Bring a camera to capture the unique and ever-changing sculptures, as well as the beautiful coastal scenery.
  • Be mindful of the environment and avoid climbing on or touching the sculptures to help preserve them for future generations.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Saint-Malo Intra-Muros (the walled city), take bus lines 4, 6, or 9 towards Rothéneuf. Get off at the 'Rothéneuf Centre' stop. From there, it is approximately a 600-meter walk to the Sculptures de Rothéneuf. Bus fare is approximately €1.70 per trip.

  • Car

    From Saint-Malo, drive approximately 5 km north towards Rothéneuf, following signs for Cancale. Parking is available in a shared parking lot near the Le Bénétin restaurant, close to the sculpture site. Parking is free. Be aware that parking can be limited during peak season.

  • Walking

    From Rothéneuf Centre (accessible by bus), follow the signs towards the coast and the Sculptures de Rothéneuf. The walk is approximately 600 meters and involves some slight inclines. The path leads directly to the entrance of the site. Note that the cliff path to the sculptures is steep and may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.

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Discover more about Sculptures de Rothéneuf

The Sculptures de Rothéneuf, located just 5 kilometers from Saint-Malo in Brittany, France, present a captivating and unusual art destination. This open-air gallery features over 300 granite sculptures carved directly into the coastal cliffs. The sculptures are the work of Abbé Fouré (1839-1910), a local priest who, after suffering a stroke that left him deaf and mute, retreated to Rothéneuf and dedicated the last 14 years of his life to creating this impressive artwork. Abbé Fouré's sculptures depict a diverse range of subjects, drawing inspiration from local legends, historical events, and religious themes. Visitors can find depictions of the Rothéneuf family, a group of local corsairs, pirates, and nobles, as well as figures from Breton history like Jacques Cartier and Saint Budoc. Other sculptures reflect contemporary events from Abbé Fouré's time, such as the Transvaal War and portraits of political figures like President Krüger. Sea monsters, angels, and other mythical creatures also emerge from the granite, showcasing the artist's unique vision. The sculptures are carved on a cliff overlooking the sea and are subject to the elements, making the site a constantly evolving work of art. Tides and sea air contribute to the erosion of the sculptures, ensuring that no two visits are ever quite the same. The site spans nearly 500 square meters and offers stunning views of the Emerald Coast. Visiting the Sculptures de Rothéneuf provides a glimpse into the mind of a unique artist and the history and legends that inspired him. The site is a testament to the power of art to transcend physical limitations and to the enduring impact of human creativity on the natural landscape.

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