Saint-Pol-de-Leon – the Breton capital of artichoke

Situated on the coast, Saint-Pol-de-Leon is a very charming and interesting city in Brittany. In the past, this was an old episcopal site and even a sort of religious capital. This city was actually named after Saint Paul Aurelian, one of the founder saints of Brittany. That is the reason why Saint-Pol-de-Leon has one of the most beautiful cathedrals. But, today, Saint-Pol-de-Leon is above all known as one of the largest vegetable producers in France. This city is even called the Breton capital of artichoke. So, when visiting Saint-Pol-de-Leon, make sure to visit its monuments, but also don’t miss to taste some great unusual dishes made of artichoke, like the artichoke ice cream.

Visit the Kreisker Chapel

Built in the 14th and 15th century, the Notre-Dame du Kreisker Chapel is an ancient Catholic chapel situated in the heart of Saint-Pol-de-Leon. This chapel is a place that you should definitely put on your “must-see” list when visiting this city. The chapel tower is 78 meters high, and therefore this is the tallest tower in Brittany. It was doomed to be destructed, but it was saved thanks to Napoleon I. Today, this is an essential coastal landmark for navigation. If you are in good shape, you should go to the top of the chapel’s tower. You will have to climb some 169 steps, but the panoramic view from above is the most incredible.

An incredible pipe organ

Labeled as a French Historic City, Saint-Pol-de-Leon is a place where you can see some excellent examples of the 13th-century Gothic architecture. In the heart of the city, you can visit the Saint-Paul-Aurelian Cathedral, the most majestic religious building. In the past, this cathedral was the seat of the Bishop of Saint-Pol-de-Leon and, today, it still houses so many incredible artistic curiosities. For example, the Saint-Paul Aurelian Cathedral is a place where you can see an incredible pipe organ. English family Dallam built this instrument between 1657 and 1660. Nowadays, every Tuesday, you can attend a fantastic concert in this cathedral.

Try artichoke ice cream

Situated just a few steps from the Saint-Paul Aurelian Cathedral, you can find a great little shop called - Le Glacier. Here, you can buy some tasty Breton food specialties, such as buttery and crusty kouign-amann. But, as you already know, Saint-Pol-de-Léon is also the Breton capital of artichoke. So, when you come to “le Glacier” you should absolutely order their artichoke ice cream. At first, it may sound a little bit strange, but this ice cream is more than delicious.