Museums in Brittany, France
Sea in Paimpol, Navy in Brest, Fisheries in Concarneau and more
Explore the history of fishing, Breton seafaring and culture, traditional costumes and handicrafts in Quimper and one of the biggest French Naval bases.
Museums in Brittany, France - Musée de la Mer (Museum of the Sea), Paimpol, Brittany, France
If ever a museum had an appropriate setting, it is Musée de la Mer (Museum of the Sea) on Rue Labenne in Paimpol. Investigating the history of Breton seafaring and the region’s proud maritime history, the building was formerly used as a factory for drying fish after the boats had come back from sea with their extensive hauls. Other attractions in picturesque Paimpol include the riverbank steam train (Vapeur du Trieux) and the glass-making factory on Ile de Bréhat.
Museums in Brittany, France - Musée de la Pêche (Museum of the Fisheries), Concarneau, Brittany, France
Fishing has always been – and still is – a major industry in Brittany, and nowhere more so than the seaside town of Concarneau. It is a major port for the vast fishing fleets that bring back tuna from the African coast, and the best place to learn about the industry is at the Musée de la Pêche. This fishing museum looks at the history of fishing, seafaring traditions and contains models of the ships and trawlers used. Other highlights of Concarneau include the beaches (Plage du Cabellou and Plage des Sables Blancs) and the Marinarium, the world’s oldest marine biology institute.
Museums in Brittany, France - Musée Départemental Breton, Quimper, Brittany, France
The Musée Départemental Breton, just behind Quimper’s cathedral, is in a palace that formerly belonged to the bishop. It is the place to head to for visitors looking to learn more about Brittany’s history and Breton culture. It covers everything from archaeology and furniture to traditional costumes and handicrafts.
Other attractions in Quimper include the Festival de Cornouaille, a celebration of Celtic music and culture in July.
Museums in Brittany, France - Musée de la Marine (Museum of the Navy), Brest, Brittany, France
A major port and naval base, Brest is a fitting place for the Musée de la Marine (Museum of the Navy). Though a little stuffy, the building that this exploration of maritime history is set in more than makes up for the lack of flashy gadgetry. The Musée de la Marine is housed in the Chateau de Brest, a 13th century fortress that has great views of the sea and Brest harbour from the walls. Other attractions in Brest include Tour Tanguy, which includes exhibitions on what Brest was like before World War II’s extensive bombing, and the Océanopolis aquarium.
Museums in Brittany, France – Other museums worth visiting
Musée de la Compagnie des Indes (Museum of the French East India Company), Lorient, Brittany, France.
Musée de Bretagne (Museum of Brittany), Rennes, Brittany, France
Musée de la Cohue, Vannes, Brittany, France.
Musée du Bateau (Museam of Boats) and Port-Musée (Port Museum) in Dournenez, Britanny, France.
