Our Blog - Guémené-sur-Scorff, France

Guémené-sur-Scorff originally was a feudal motte built around 1050 by a lord named Guégant. However, it was the Rohan-Guémené family that left its mark on the town for several generations. The feudal motte was replaced at the beginning of the 12th century with a stone castle. Most of the castle and enclosures are gone with a few exceptions. This part is the Salle des Gardes and the attached Grand Rampart. You can go up the circular staircase and look out over the ramparts.

There are several nicely-preserved houses dating from before the French Revolution, mainly located on the "Grande Rue". Some of them were built using stones from the old castle, which is typical when the castle becomes abandoned or sold. This first one is the old coaching inn, called the Relais de Diligence, which dates from the 16th century. It is flanked by a large porch which attests to its former function, which has been nicely painted now. It also has one of the nicest front doors in town, and two carved statues on the upper floor.

This half-timbered house is called l'Echoppe and dates from the 16th century.

The 17th century Trois Marchands tavern complete with the 17th century sign.

Another part of the old castle enclosure that is still remaining is the 15th century Rohan Gate.

Church of Notre-Dame-de-la-Fosse was rebuilt in 1820 after the previous church, founded in 1529, fell into ruin. The only thing that caught my eye was the nice stained-glass windows.

This little fountain is named La Fontaine Notre-Dame de la Fosse, which literally means our Lady of the Moat, due to the proximity with the moat of the castle.