Sarzeau

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Coordinates: 47°31′41″N 2°46′07″W / 47.52806, -2.76861

Commune of Sarzeau

Sarzhav
Location
Image:Paris_plan_pointer_b_jms.gif
Map highlighting the commune of
Coordinates 47°31′41″N 2°46′07″W / 47.52806, -2.76861
Administration
Country France
Region Bretagne
Department Morbihan
Arrondissement Vannes
Canton Sarzeau (chief town)
Intercommunality C.C. de la Presqu'île de Rhuys
Mayor Henri-Ferdinand Bénéat
(2001-2008)
Statistics
Elevation 0 m–42 m
Land area¹ 60.23 km²
Population²
(2004)
6941
 - Density 115/km² (2004)
Miscellaneous
INSEE/Postal code 56240/ 56370
1 French Land Register data, which excludes lakes, ponds, glaciers > 1 km² (0.386 sq mi or 247 acres) and river estuaries.
2 Population sans doubles comptes: residents of multiple communes (e.g. students and military personnel) only counted once.
France

Sarzeau (Breton: Sarzhav) is a commune in the Brittany region of France. It is located on the Rhuys peninsula between the Gulf of Morbihan and the Atlantic Ocean.

Contents

[edit] History

The area around the Morbihan has been occupied since neolithic times. Prehistoric monuments remaining include the menhirs of Kermaillard and Largueven, as well as the dolmens of Kergillet and Brillac. The town itself was first mentioned in the 11th century in reference to an abby at the site[1]. The nearby Château de Suscinio was built in the 13th century and fortified in the 15th century. The castle was a favorite spot of the Dukes of Brittany who often came for the hunting in the surrounding region[2]. During the Middle Ages, because of its size the town was divided into seven local divisions, a situation that still exists to some extent. The town officially became a commune during the French Revolution.

[edit] Sights

  • The Château de Suscinio is a 13th century castle that has recently been restored. Inside there is also a museum on the history of the area.
  • The Château de Kerlevenan is an 18th century castle with large gardens.
  • Museum of Arts et Métiers and Cider Museum.
  • Menhirs of Kermaillard and Largueven, and the dolmens of Kergillet and Brillac.
  • Beaches, especially along the Atlantic side.

[edit] Demographics

Inhabitants of Sarzeau are called Sarzeautins.

As of the census of 1999, the town has a population of 6,143.

[edit] See also

[edit] References

Mayors of Morbihan Association (French); INSEE (English); IGN (English)

[edit] External links

Wikimedia Commons has media related to: