Entrance portal of the Couvent des Cordeliers in Dinan, Brittany, France

Couvent Des Cordeliers, Dinan

Couvent des Cordeliers Dinan: Complete Visitor Guide (2025)

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

The Couvent des Cordeliers in Dinan is one of Brittany’s most treasured historical sites. Founded in the early 13th century by the Franciscan order, this former monastery stands as a testament to Dinan’s rich religious, architectural, and cultural heritage. Blending Gothic, medieval, and 17th-century Maurist elements, the convent is a vibrant center for exhibitions, concerts, and community events. Its central location within Dinan’s medieval cityscape, proximity to the ramparts, and layered history make it an essential stop for history lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and families alike (museedupatrimoine.fr; Emeraude Patrimoine).

This detailed guide provides up-to-date information on visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, guided tours, nearby attractions, and practical tips to help you make the most of your visit to the Couvent des Cordeliers Dinan.

Historical Overview
Architectural Highlights
Cultural and Community Role
Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, Accessibility
Tours and Events
Facilities and Amenities
Nearby Attractions and Suggested Itineraries
Visitor Etiquette and Tips
FAQs
Getting There & Contact Information
Summary and Travel Tips
References

Historical Overview

Origins and Foundation

The Couvent des Cordeliers was established in 1232 by the Franciscan order, known as “Cordeliers” for their knotted cord belts, symbolizing humility and poverty. The friars chose Dinan—a major religious and commercial center of medieval Brittany—as their base, constructing the convent atop the remnants of the Château fort des Avaugour. Their arrival marked a significant chapter in Dinan’s spiritual and social evolution, complementing existing Benedictine and other monastic communities (museedupatrimoine.fr).

Notable Events

Throughout the centuries, the convent played key roles during periods of conflict such as the Hundred Years’ War and the Wars of Religion, often serving as a refuge and center for mediation. The French Revolution saw the suppression and repurposing of the convent, but much of its architecture survived and was later restored, preserving its historical integrity.

Architectural Highlights

The Couvent des Cordeliers is a remarkable example of medieval monastic design, later enriched by 17th-century Maurist renovations. The site features:

Gothic Church: Pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and large windows flood the interior with light.
17th-Century Cloister: Rebuilt by the Maurists, the cloister’s harmonious proportions and restrained classical motifs represent the transition from medieval austerity to early modern design.
Conventual Buildings: Including the chapter house, refectory, and dormitories, arranged around the cloister garden.

The use of local granite and timber ties the complex to Brittany’s architectural traditions, while remnants of wall paintings and sculptural elements hint at its rich artistic past (Emeraude Patrimoine).

Cultural and Community Role

From its foundation, the convent was dedicated to spiritual guidance, charity, and education—core Franciscan values. Today, it continues this legacy as a cultural hub, hosting art exhibitions, concerts, workshops, and educational programs. Major events like the biennial Festival of the Ramparts further reinforce its role in Dinan’s living heritage (Dinan-Cap Fréhel Tourism).

Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, Accessibility

Opening Hours (2025)

January: Saturdays & Sundays, 10:00–13:00 & 14:00–17:00
February–March: Daily except Tuesday, 10:00–13:00 & 14:00–17:00
April–May: Daily except Tuesday, 10:00–13:00 & 14:00–18:00
June–August: Daily, 10:00–18:30
September–October: Daily except Tuesday, 10:00–13:00 & 14:00–18:00
November–December: Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays, 10:00–13:00 & 14:00–17:00

Note: No entry within 30 minutes of closing. Closed January 1st, December 24th, 25th, and 31st. Always check the official website for updates.

Ticket Prices

Unguided Visit: €4 (full), €3 (concession: ages 12–18, students, job seekers, RSA, disabled with proof)
Guided Tour: €4.50 (full), €3.50 (concession)
Children under 12: Free
Accompanying a disabled visitor: Free
Groups (10+): €4 per person; one free per 20 paying visitors; driver and group leader free
Workshops: €4.50 (youth), free for accompanying adult
Special events/shows: €5 per person

Multi-site passes are available for combined visits to other heritage sites. Tickets can be purchased online or on-site (ticket info).

Accessibility

The convent is generally accessible, with ramps and adapted restrooms in main areas.
Free entry for companions of disabled visitors and reduced rates for disabled guests (with proof).
Some historic areas may be challenging for those with reduced mobility; contact ahead for details.
Special materials available for visually impaired visitors; guide dogs welcome.
No dedicated disabled parking, but drop-off possible at entrance (Handivisites app).

Tours and Events

Self-Guided Visits

Multilingual brochures are provided (French, German, Spanish, English, Italian, Dutch).
Typical visit duration: 20–30 minutes.

Guided Tours

Scheduled daily at 15:00 and 16:30 in peak season (June–August); English tours available by request.
Thematic tours focus on architecture, literature, science, and include sketching workshops.
Guided tours offer deep insights into history and architecture; booking is advised.

Workshops and Family Activities

Family-friendly workshops, interactive sessions, and educational events, particularly during school holidays.
Workshops last 1.5–2 hours and are ideal for children and families.

Cultural Events

Regular art exhibitions, concerts, and performances held in the cloisters and historic rooms.
The convent is a venue for events during the Festival of the Ramparts and other local festivities (Dinan-Cap Fréhel Tourism).

Facilities and Amenities

Shop: Open during visiting hours; sells history books, children’s literature, local foods, monastic goods, postcards, and souvenirs (shop info).
Food/Refreshments: No café on-site, but Dinan’s center—with restaurants and crêperies—is a 10-minute walk away. For recommendations, consult the Charlieu-Belmont Tourist Office.
Restrooms: Available during public events and exhibitions; inquire for accessible facilities.

Nearby Attractions and Suggested Itineraries

Basilique Saint-Sauveur
Tour de l’Horloge (Clock Tower)
Rue du Jerzual (artists’ studios, galleries, boutiques)
Medieval ramparts and gardens
Musée du Rail
Combine your convent visit with a walk through Dinan’s cobbled streets and a stop for Breton galettes and cider (Dreamer at Heart).

Visitor Etiquette and Practical Tips

Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled tour.
Photography is permitted but avoid flash and tripods; check for restrictions in sacred areas (Waymarking).
Dress modestly to respect the site’s religious heritage.
Maintain silence in cloisters and gardens for quiet reflection.
For accessibility needs, contact the convent in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Couvent des Cordeliers opening hours?
A: Hours vary by season; see official schedule.

Q: How do I book tickets?
A: Book online or by phone via the official website.

Q: Is the site wheelchair accessible?
A: Most public areas are accessible; some historic spaces may be limited.

Q: Are guided tours available in English?
A: Yes, by prior arrangement.

Q: Can I bring children?
A: Yes, with free admission for under-12s and regular family activities.

Getting There & Contact Information

Address: 1 Chemin des Cordeliers, 22100 Dinan, France
Phone: 04 77 60 07 42
Official website

Summary and Travel Tips

The Couvent des Cordeliers in Dinan is a must-visit for anyone interested in medieval history, architecture, and living cultural traditions. Its well-preserved cloisters, engaging exhibitions, and inclusive visitor services create a welcoming environment for individuals, families, and groups. Plan ahead by booking tickets online, consider a guided tour for deeper insight, and explore Dinan’s other medieval treasures for a complete experience. For added value, download the Audiala app for audio guides and up-to-date event information.

References and Further Reading

Couvent des Cordeliers Dinan: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Tips for This Historic Site (couventdescordeliers.fr)
Visiting Couvent des Cordeliers in Dinan: History, Tickets, Hours & Nearby Attractions (museedupatrimoine.fr)
Visiting the Couvent des Cordeliers in Dinan: Hours, Tickets, and Historical Insights (Emeraude Patrimoine)
Couvent des Cordeliers Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Guide in Dinan (couventdescordeliers.fr)
Dinan-Cap Fréhel Tourism – Festival of the Ramparts (Dinan-Cap Fréhel Tourism)
Photographic and visitor conduct recommendations (Waymarking)

Plan your visit today, follow Couvent des Cordeliers on social media for updates, and immerse yourself in the living history of Dinan’s medieval heart.