Place des Otages, Morlaix: A Journey Through Centuries of History
The Historic Heart of Morlaix: The Story of Place des Otages
Morlaix—an old, rich, and historic town in Brittany. At the heart of the town is the Place des Otages, which is not just an ordinary square, but a witness to the memories of the Middle Ages, architecture, cultural heritage, and the profound human tragedy of World War II. It remains a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and travelers seeking to connect with the soul of Morlaix.
The 15th Century: From Marshland to Grande Place
In the 15th century, the center of Morlaix was completely different. The area of today’s Place des Otages was once a marshland. This marsh was filled in to create the “Grande Place”, which over time became the main commercial and social meeting place of the city.
Hostages Square
In the 15th century, the “Grande Place” was filled in over marshland and then paved. It was lined with half-timbered houses, some fine examples of which still remain today. The square ends at the port with the “spur,” the mouth where the two rivers, Jarlot and Queffleuth, meet.
“Not All of the Deportees Returned”
JEAN-ALBERT GUENEGAN, Poetics of the Earth and the Sea
26 December 1943—this day is deeply engraved in the history of Morlaix. Following a Resistance attack, the German army gathered 600 men in this square, took 60 as hostages, and deported them to Buchenwald. Thirty-four men died there.
Originally named “Place Thiers” in 1880, the square was renamed “Place des Otages” in memory of these tragic events. A memorial plaque at the square today honors the victims and serves as a reminder of the sacrifices endured during the war.
The Port and Saint-Melaine Church
The port once extended right up to the foot of the steps of the Church of Saint Melaine, a Beaumanoir-style building constructed in 1489. At one time, the port’s water reached the church steps—a fact that is hard to imagine today.
Nearby, Saint-Melaine Church remains one of the most important examples of Beaumanoir architecture, illustrating the medieval heritage of Morlaix.
The Town Hall
The first Town Hall was built in 1610. It was replaced by the current Hôtel de Ville in 1837, which added a belfry reflecting the city’s historical status. The belfry continues to serve as a symbol of civic pride in the town.
Architecture & Cultural Importance of Today’s Place des Otages
Half-Timbered Houses
Around the square, half-timbered houses, made of a mixture of wood and stone, were constructed. Some of these houses still survive today, serving as living examples of Morlaix’s medieval architecture.
The Bandstand (Kiosque à musique)
In 1903, city councilor Auguste Ropartz gifted the town a beautiful bandstand, which remains a symbol of culture and music today.
Walking Through the Square Today
The current Place des Otages:
- Is full of cafés, restaurants, and small shops.
- Serves as a main gathering place for locals during the day and afternoon.
- Acts as a perfect starting point for tourists exploring Morlaix.
- Is near churches, old narrow streets, markets, and the historic port path.
Today, the square has created a unique atmosphere, combining history, memory, architecture, and modern life. Visitors can enjoy both the historical ambiance and the lively contemporary culture of the town.
Place des Otages is not just a square—it is a symbol of the past, beauty, pain, and struggle of Morlaix.
From its medieval charm to the brutal tragedy of World War II, standing here, the layers of time unfold before your eyes. Today, it is the heart of the city, telling the true story of Morlaix to every traveler.
Whether you are a history enthusiast, architecture lover, or a curious traveler, Place des Otages offers a profound glimpse into the soul of Morlaix.
Pingback: Place des Otages, Morlaix : Un voyage à travers des siècles d’histoire - mationwalls.com