Morlaix – a Breton city with an impressive viaduct

The first thing a visitor sees in Morlaix is its impressive viaduct. Even if it is the real emblem of this Breton city, Morlaix hides so many other surprises. The old district is more than charming, and you should definitely visit it. Here, you can spot many typical lantern houses built by linen traders in the 16th century. Morlaix also has many interesting shops, art galleries, and restaurants where you can try the regional food specialty – kig-ah-farz.

Morlaix, Brittany

29600 Morlaix, France

Viaduct of Morlaix

Even before its construction, the Viaduct of Morlaix was a very controversial project. The city authorities were against it, as its architects were planning to build it in the heart of the city. However, the French Railway Company decided otherwise. They needed a bridge to allow the passage of the Paris-Brest railway line, so the work on the construction of this viaduct started in July 1961 and, finally, it was put into service in April 1865. This imposing structure has become a real emblem of this city. Made out of granite stones, this viaduct is 292 meters long and 62 meters high viaduct. It has two levels with 14 large and nine smaller arches. Damaged during the Allied strategic bombing in World War II, the Viaduct of Morlaix was listed as a French historical monument in October 1976.

The Viaduct of Morlaix

Viaduc de Morlaix, 29600 Morlaix, France

Visit the Museum of the Fine Arts

After visiting the famous Viaduct of Morlaix, you should go to the old part of the city and tour the Musée des Beaux-Arts. Opened in 1887, this museum is also known as the Jacobins Museum as it is situated in the former convent of the Jacobins, confiscated during the French Revolution. The museum building is in a typical lantern house (maison à pondalez). Its unique architecture is absolutely worthy of attention, but don't forget to see its art collection as well. Make sure to perceive the paintings "Le Martyre de Saint Barthélémy" by the French artist Sébastien Bourdon, and the "Venus and Adonis" by the Italian painter Giovanni Francesco Romanelli. Many local artists have left their artworks to this museum. That is a reason why in the Musée des Beaux-Arts of Morlaix, you can see many beautiful paintings by the French artist Louis-Marie Baader.

Musée de Morlaix / Ville de Morlaix

Place des Jacobins, 29600 Morlaix

Try kig-ha-farz

Morlaix is a Breton city with an impressive viaduct, but also a place where you can taste an exceptional dish - kig-ha-farz. This local food specialty, which name literally means "meat and stuffing", consists of various meats and vegetables simmered in a broth with buckwheat flour. This was once considered as a dish of the poor people, but today this pot-au-feu is a very popular food delicacy. Make sure to order it in a restaurant in advance, as it needs quite some time to be prepared.