Maison 6 Rue Notre Dame, Guingamp (Pa00089187)

Maison 6 Rue Notre-Dame Guingamp: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Information

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Guingamp, Brittany, Maison 6 Rue Notre-Dame—often called the “Maison de la Duchesse Anne”—stands as one of the town’s most emblematic Renaissance-era monuments. Built in the late 16th century, this stone and timber-framed residence exemplifies the architectural prosperity that marked Guingamp’s golden age, reflecting the affluence of the local bourgeoisie and merchant class. While local legend links the house to Anne of Brittany, its true significance lies in its authentic representation of Breton urban heritage and its enduring presence within Guingamp’s historical and cultural landscape (commune-mairie.fr, patrimoine-guingamp.net, brittanytourism.com).

Maison 6 Rue Notre-Dame is protected as a Monument Historique (PA00089187), featuring distinctive Renaissance elements such as its turret (tourelle), mullioned windows, and finely carved granite façade. While it remains primarily a private residence and houses the celebrated Crêperie La Duchesse Anne, the building is a highlight for visitors interested in Guingamp’s medieval streetscape and architectural heritage (Petit Futé, Restaurants de France).

This detailed guide provides practical visitor information, historical context, and tips for exploring both the site and Guingamp’s vibrant historic district.

Historical Development and Significance
Architectural Features
Heritage Status and Preservation
Cultural and Urban Context
Visiting Information
What to See and Experience
Events and Special Access
Nearby Attractions and Amenities
Visitor Tips
FAQ
Conclusion and Call to Action
References

Historical Development and Significance

Maison 6 Rue Notre-Dame is a prime example of 16th-century domestic architecture in Brittany. Erected during Guingamp’s prosperous “Siècles d’or,” the house reflects the wealth generated by the textile trade and the prominence of its original owners—likely affluent merchants or members of the urban elite (patrimoine-guingamp.net).

The house’s location on Rue Notre-Dame, a historic artery leading to the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Bon-Secours, places it at the heart of Guingamp’s religious, commercial, and social activity. While myths connect the building to Anne of Brittany, historical studies confirm the house postdates her 1505 visit, cementing its status as a symbol of local memory rather than a direct ducal residence (patrimoine-guingamp.net).

Architectural Features

Maison 6 Rue Notre-Dame displays all the hallmarks of Breton Renaissance architecture:

Granite and Schist Construction: Ensures durability and regional character.
Timber Framing: Upper stories feature exposed and sometimes decorative beams.
Turret (Tourelle): A striking corner turret enhances both defensive posture and visual appeal.
Mullioned Windows: Elegant stone-framed windows maximize light.
Carved Details: Fine stonework adorns doorways, lintels, and the façade.
Monumental Fireplace: The interior, accessible during rare openings, features a grand 16th-century fireplace (Petit Futé).

While the building’s interior is mostly private, the crêperie allows guests to experience historic ambiance firsthand.

Heritage Status and Preservation

Designated a Monument Historique since 1926, Maison 6 Rue Notre-Dame is subject to strict heritage regulations:

Authentic Preservation: Restoration must use traditional materials and methods.
Oversight: All work is supervised by the Architecte des Bâtiments de France.
Community Engagement: The house features in educational programs, guided tours, and heritage events (commune-mairie.fr, monumentum.fr).

Cultural and Urban Context

Maison 6 Rue Notre-Dame is integral to Guingamp’s identity as a “Petite Cité de Caractère®,” contributing to a cohesive urban landscape of medieval and Renaissance architecture (guingamp-paimpol.com). Its proximity to landmarks such as the Basilica, Place du Centre, and Fontaine de la Plomée situates it at the crossroads of history, culture, and daily life (brittanytourism.com).

The building’s use as a restaurant (Crêperie La Duchesse Anne) ensures it remains a vibrant part of the community (Restaurants de France).

Visiting Information

Hours and Tickets

Exterior Viewing: The house’s façade is accessible year-round and can be admired at any time.
Interior Access: Generally restricted; occasional openings occur during special events such as European Heritage Days (monumentum.fr).
Crêperie Hours: The Crêperie La Duchesse Anne typically operates daily from 12:00–14:00 and 19:00–21:00 (Petit Futé). Reservations are recommended.

Guided Tours

Seasonal Heritage Walks: The Guingamp Tourist Office offers guided tours of the historic center, often featuring Maison 6 Rue Notre-Dame (Guingamp-Paimpol Tourist Office).
Self-Guided Options: Downloadable maps and walking guides are available for independent exploration.

Accessibility

Pedestrian-Friendly: The historic center is best explored on foot, though streets can be uneven and narrow.
Wheelchair Access: Ground-floor access to the crêperie is available, but some mobility challenges may remain due to paving.

What to See and Experience

Architectural Details: Admire the Renaissance turret, carved granite façade, and mullioned windows.
Photography: The house’s exterior is one of Guingamp’s most photographed sites, especially in morning or late afternoon light.
Cultural Atmosphere: Enjoy the lively ambiance of Rue Notre-Dame, with its cafés, boutiques, and proximity to key landmarks.

Events and Special Access

European Heritage Days (September): Offers rare interior access and insights into ongoing restoration (monumentum.fr).
Festival de la Saint-Loup (August): Experience Breton culture and tradition in the heart of Guingamp (gites-de-france.com).

Nearby Attractions and Amenities

Historic Landmarks: Basilica of Notre-Dame de Bon-Secours, Fontaine de la Plomée, Château Pierre II.
Food and Accommodation: Numerous restaurants, bakeries, and hotels such as Hôtel Arcadia and Le Relais De Launay.
Tourist Services: The Guingamp Tourist Office provides current information, maps, and event schedules.

Visitor Tips

Plan Ahead: Check for special event dates and book crêperie reservations in advance.
Combine Sites: Pair your visit with other historic attractions in the center.
Respect Privacy: The house is privately owned; observe from the street unless access is granted during public events.
Photography: Capture the unique features of the house but avoid obstructing entryways.

FAQ

Q: Is the interior open to the public?
A: Access is generally limited to special occasions, such as European Heritage Days. Otherwise, only the exterior and the crêperie are open to visitors.

Q: Are tickets required?
A: No tickets are needed for exterior viewing. Interior access during special events may require advance booking.

Q: Is Maison 6 Rue Notre-Dame wheelchair accessible?
A: The ground floor crêperie is accessible, but the surrounding streets and upper floors may present challenges.

Q: How do I join a guided tour?
A: Contact the Guingamp Tourist Office for schedules and booking information on heritage walks.

Q: What is the best time to visit?
A: September (European Heritage Days), summer festivals, or during pleasant weather for the best experience.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Maison 6 Rue Notre-Dame stands as a testament to Guingamp’s Renaissance heritage, blending architectural beauty, local legend, and vibrant urban life. While interior access is rare, its striking exterior, central location, and the unique experience of dining at the crêperie make it a must-see for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and cultural travelers alike.

Plan your visit by consulting the Guingamp-Paimpol Tourist Office website for the latest information on events, guided tours, and opening times. Enhance your experience by downloading the Audiala app for interactive guides, and follow us on social media for updates on Guingamp’s rich heritage.