Villa Ker Magdalen The Minaret of Bénodet

Situated on the Corniche de l’Estuaire, the Villa Ker Magdalen is a unique, eye-catching building. Known today as“Le Minaret “, this atypical villa is the fruit of a fascinating story combining architecture, travel and friendship.

A story with an Oriental flavour

In 1926, after treating the Pasha of Marrakech, El Glaoui, Dr Boyer decided to have his villa built. By way of thanks, the pasha gave him a dozen workers to decorate the interior. This is how the Villa Ker Magdalen – named in honour of the doctor’s wife, Madeleine – came to be adorned with oriental details. At the time, it housed a room decorated with mosaics, nicknamed“La Chambre du Pacha “, and a hammam in the basement.

Architecture between East and West

Theelegance of the villa is not limited to its interior. The exterior was designed byinternationally renowned architect Monsieur Laprade. The gardens are adorned with black and white pebbles from Tréguennec and pink pebbles from Ploumanac’h, which line the pool and fountain. Later, Professor Boyer decided to raise the tower, offering an uninterrupted view of the coast as far as the Pointe de Trévignon.

From the Minaret to the Alhambra

After the death of Dr Boyer in 1951, the villa was bought by Mr and Mrs Lozach, who transformed it into a hotel-restaurant. The hotel was then named“Le Minaret“, while the restaurant, still in existence, was renamed “ L’Alhambra“. Since then, the villa has been commonly known as“Le Minaret“, in reference to its distinctive tower.
Today, Le Minaret is privately owned, but it remains a powerful symbol and an architectural curiosity in Bénodet. It bears witness to thetown’s rich and unique history, and continues to captivate passers-by with its timeless charm.

L'Alhambra

Villa Ker Magdalen The Minaret of Bénodet

A story with an Oriental flavour

Architecture between East and West

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