King Gradlon and Saint Corentin

Breathtaking landscapes, age-old traditions, charming villages, an open horizon to the sea, and cuisine that’s briny, sweet, or decadently buttery—Brittany is a region that draws you in. For an enchanting twist to your jouney add a good dose of legends and mythical tales. In Quimper, two iconic figures sit at the crossroads between history and legend: King Gradlon and Saint Corentin. Both are deeply tied to the city and its cathedral. According to local lore, Gradlon, King of Cornouaille, founded Quimper after escaping the destruction of the city of Ys—a stunning and majestic place he had built for his beloved daughter, Dahut. Unfortunately, Dahut’s passion for fleeting romances led her to be outplayed at her own game, as she gave the keys to her city to a mysterious young man — who was none other than the devil in disguise. This gave the devil the power to open up the city’s protective sea walls. Lying bellow sea level, the city of Ys stood no chance as the ocean surged in and swallowed it whole. Only King Gradlon and Saint Guénolé survived, leaving the rest lost beneath the water. Years later, while hunting in the forest of Ménez Hom, the weary and hungry king stumbled upon the hermitage of Corentin, who graciously offered him food. But this was no ordinary meal—it was a magical fish that, once cut, would regenerate instantly in the water. Amazed by the miracle, Gradlon made Corentin the first bishop of Cornouaille and even gave him his castle, located at the confluence, to build a cathedral. Today, a statue of King Gradlon on his faithful horse, Morvac’h, stands between the cathedral spires. Legend says he watches over Quimper from above, always gazing toward the ocean where the city of Ys—and his daughter—were lost. Inside the cathedral, you’ll also find a statue of his friend and savior, Saint Corentin, easily recognized by the miraculous fish by his side.