Auray - An-Alre

Auray (Breton: An Alre) is a commune in the Morbihan (Breton: Mor-Bihan) department in Brittany. This town on the river, has the old quarters, including the Port of St Goustan. There are narrow alleys and streets, lined with 15th century houses. A successful wine and grain trade during the 16th and 17th centuries, led to this being the third most important port in Brittany. During July and August, there are evening performances of Breton songs. There is a weekly market on Mondays. 

Auray-Saint-Goustan has two significant historic quarters. The upper town is centred around Saint-Gildas church. Built in 1636 and classified as a historic monument. While the lower town is gathered along the banks of the River Loch. There is a four-arched stone bridge crossing the river that dates back to the 13th century. There are many historic buildings here and also nearby is the sanctuary city of Sainte-Anne d’Auray, the most important Catholic pilgrimage site in Brittany. 

Image: The port of Saint-Goustan at Auray (circa 1900) painting by Maxime Maufra (May 17, 1861 – May 23, 1918).

Links: Brittany Tourism and  Quiberon Bay Tourist Office