Pilori Square

You’ve arrived at the charming little Place du Pilori, where Guérande’s medieval spirit is on full display, with its cobblestones and stone houses. In the Middle Ages, this was one of the most important spots in town, as it was home to the pillory, a post used to administer public justice.

Offenders were tied to it for a set period of time, exposed to the gaze and humiliation of the townspeople. And humiliation here didn’t just mean jeers, it often came with thrown objects, physical blows, and even injury. This punishment, known as public exposure, was considered more severe than a reprimand but less harsh than flogging, mutilation, banishment, or torture, and was used for crimes like theft, adultery, perjury, and others. The pillory appeared in the 12th century and quickly became a fixture in many French towns as a means of enforcing justice.

They’ve all disappeared today, of course, but many of the squares that once held them still bear the name. Nowadays, this is a delightful little spot with small shops to browse. On your left, you’ll notice a public well dug in the 14th century. On your right stands a lovely timber-framed house with pale blue beams.

This is what’s called a jettied house, its upper floor projects over the ground floor, giving more living space upstairs while keeping the street clear below. It also provided shelter beneath. Opposite it is a stone house bearing a sign that reads “Au bonhomme Guérande.” At the far right corner, you’ll spot a carved head set into the stone. While no one knows exactly why it’s here, it’s believed to date from the 15th or 16th century.

All these details help make this square a place rich in history, where medieval features have survived through the centuries.