The National Memorial to Sailors in Pointe Saint-Mathieu

Erected in 1927 by René Quillivic, in memory to the soldiers who died for France during the wars waged in the 20th century.

In homage to these men, the small defensive fort has been turned into a cenotaph where everyone can congregate in their memory.

A place of remembrance for the victims and past conflicts, this funerary space , handed down from generation to generation, is sure to affect and speak out to all its visitors.

The two crosses: these two neighbouring steles mounted with a cross, today known as the “monks' gallows”, have been adorned with religious insignia since the iron age.

Set in the ruins of the Benedictan abbey, the lighthouse dates from 1835. Standing 58 metres above sea level, the top can be reached by the 163 steps and makes the perfect spot from which to admire the splendid panoramic view from the Crozon peninsular to Ouessant. Don’t think twice about mounting the stairway, the unspoilt view of the islands is more than worth the small effort.

The Abbey

Listed as a Historic Monument in 1867, the Abbey, which dates from the 6th century and is now in ruins, continues to attract admiration still today. Every year on the first of August, the Abbey hosts amidst its ruins the Pardon of St Matthew celebration, a traditional religious ceremony that has survived the decades.

The Maurist convent and cellar. The museum of the Abbey of St Matthew: This museum, set up in the centre of the Abbey grounds, presents the site, the monastic life of its former inhabitants and the Abbey through history.

A 17-minute video explains to visitors why this site is so unique.

The chapel: Once the church of St Matthew's parish, today it contains ancient statues and engravings that evoke the past of the saints venerated on this site.

Museum

Tel: +33 (0)2 98 89 10 52

“The Friends of St Matthew” association

Tel: +33 (0)2 98 48 35 73

Tourist Information Office

Tel: +33 (0)2 98 48 30 18

Lighthouse visits

Opening times

From 7 April to 30 April: Every day except Tuesday (closed) from 2.00 to 6.30 pm

May and June: Saturday, Sunday and public holidays (also open 7 and 18 May) from 2.00 to 6.30 pm

July and August: daily from 10 am to 7.30 pm

From 1 to 16 September: every day except Tuesday (closed) from 10.00 am to 12.30 pm and 2.00 and 6.30 pm

From 17 to 30 September: Every day except Tuesday (closed) from 2.00 to 6.30 pm

From 27 October to 7 November (also open 8 to 11 November): every day except Tuesday (closed) from 2.00 to 5.30 pm

From 22 December to 6 January: every day except Tuesday (closed) from 2.00 to 5.30 pm (also closed 25 December and 1 January).

Ticket with abbey museum €3 for over 10s, €1 4 to 9 years, free for under 4s

In summer: St Mathieu and Trézien (Plouarzel) lighthouse visitor pass €4 for over 10s, €2 for 4-9 years

Site officiel de la commune de Plougonvelin