Young woman admiring the façade of the Chapelle de Perguet in Bénodet — ©Perguet chapel|Guillaume Le Chanu

Local Churches

Bénodet‘s churches and chapels are more than places of worship: they tell how the town developed from a medieval port to a modern seaside resort. Follow us on a journey through the centuries to discover these remarkable buildings.

Perguet Chapel a Romanesque treasure on the road to Fouesnant

For a total immersion in history, head to the Chapelle de Perguet (renovated in 2025), a building whose foundations take us back to the very beginning of Bénodet’s history. This chapel was actually the parish church until 1878, and gave its name to the original village – Bénodet used to be called Perguet!

The oldest part of the church is Romanesque, dating from the 11th century, and its sober, elegant architecture is typical of the period. The surrounding churchyard was once the cemetery, and its calvary, restored in 1989, is adorned with two statues representing Saint Laurent and Saint Brigitte, to whom the chapel is dedicated.

Inside, you’ll find a surprising wealth of sacred heritage. After meticulous restoration, the statuary, altar and stained glass windows dazzles visitors with their colours and high-quality details. A subtle blend of tradition and modernity is revealed in the contemporary stained glass windows designed by Korean artist Kim En Joong, which bring a unique luminosity.

Saint Thomas' Church history beside the water

Located on the harbour, facing the Odet, the church of Saint-Thomas-Becket stands as a testament to Bénodet’s maritime history. Founded in the 1200s, it is dedicated to the Archbishop of Canterbury, Saint Thomas Becket, a choice that reminds us of Bénodet’s long-standing links with England.

Originally, the building was much more modest, with just a single nave and a small bell tower, but the church evolved over the centuries. It was first enlarged in the 1500s with additions that gave it a new scale, then radically altered in the 1800s by cleverly reusing old elements, keeping links with its heritage. This iconic building is open every day from 10am to 7pm and is an ideal starting point for a stroll along the harbour.

Our Lady of the Sea modern architecture overlooking the ocean

Set high above the beach at Le Trez, the church of Notre-Dame de la Mer will surprise you with its resolutely modern style. Built in 1968, its bold architecture stands out for its clean lines and harmonious integration into the seaside landscape. It is the perfect symbol of Bénodet’s revival as a tourist resort.

Inside, don’t miss the wooden pietà dating from the late 1400s. This touching, delicate sculpture is a real treasure that contrasts strikingly with the modernity of the place. It is a work of art that, despite its age, has pride of place in this contemporary setting.

The church is open to the public from mid-July to mid-August, Monday to Saturday, 10.30am to 12.30pm.