Sainte-Sève offers two distinct themes to consider when planning a trip: walking trails through the countryside and a distinctive heritage of church, cross and water tower. The Tro San-Seo runs through the commune’s countryside and around its body of water. Architectural and artistic history can be seen, among other places, at Sainte-Sève Church, the restored cross at Roc’h Glaz and the “Totem” water tower. When choosing a destination, you can weigh up time outdoors in the countryside against tangible historical landmarks.

Walking trails in the countryside

The Tro San-Seo walking trail runs through the Sainte-Sève countryside and around the commune’s body of water. It is a practical point of reference if you would like to make the countryside the focus of your trip. Sainte-Sève also opened two new walking trails in 2018 and 2020. The opening years place the trails in time; the Tro San-Seo has its own distinct name and described route.

Church and sacred art

Sainte-Sève Church dates from the 18th century and is built of slate and granite. It was consecrated by the Bishop of Léon in 1753. A staircase on the façade leads to the bell turret; the church also has two side chapels. The materials, period of construction and architectural features offer different ways to explore its architecture: slate and granite describe the building, while the staircase and chapels define its layout. A virtual tour of the church is available online. Check in advance that it is still accessible.

The high altar, made of polychrome gilded wood, dates from the 17th century. Two medallions depict the Last Supper and the Washing of the Feet. This means the church contains landmarks from different periods: the church dates from the 18th century, while the high altar dates from the 17th. The church treasury offers another perspective on its furnishings. It includes silver liturgical objects from the 17th and 18th centuries, including an 18th-century chalice and paten. These details take you from the architecture to the materials, imagery and liturgical objects.

Cross, water tower and manor house

The restored cross at Roc’h Glaz is a medieval granite cross and stands two metres high. It is considered the oldest religious landmark in the parish of Sainte-Sève. Its height and granite material give the cross a tangible form, while its designation as the parish’s oldest religious landmark points to its historical significance.

The “Totem” water tower is considered a symbol of Sainte-Sève. Its distinctive shape is reminiscent of a totem or an Indigenous American figure. The tower dates from 1989, was designed by Paul Tromeur and is made of concrete and faience. Compared with the medieval cross, the year 1989 marks a much later period. Two very different landmarks therefore take centre stage: the religious granite cross and a water tower whose name and shape reflect its distinctive form.

The former manor house of Penanvern is protected as a historic monument under a decree dated 4 December 1968 and is privately owned. If you are considering a visit, check locally whether it is possible to visit.

You can therefore choose what to focus on during your stay in Sainte-Sève: the Tro San-Seo and walking trails offer a connection with the countryside, while the church, its treasury and historic landmarks provide specific themes for a culture-focused trip. These details give you a basis for choosing the focus of your visit.

Discover more destinations: Moëlan-Sur-Mer, Loperhet, Plougastel-Daoulas, Sibiril, Argenton, Landudec, Plouenan, Kerlouan

For the broader travel overview: Finistere.