Saint-Guen (Breton: Sant‑Wenn) is a former commune in the Côtes-d'Armor department of the Brittany region in northwestern France. Located in the historical province of Brittany, the locality was situated approximately 20 km southeast of the departmental capital, Saint-Brieuc.
Administrative status
- Arrondissement: Saint-Brieuc
- Canton: Plouha
- INSEE code: 22288
- Postal code: 22570
On 1 January 2017, Saint‑Guen was merged with the neighboring communes of Mûr-de‑Bretagne, Saint‑Hoël, and others to form the new commune of Guerlédan as part of a nationwide territorial reform aimed at reducing the number of communes.
Geography
The former commune covered an area of 12.70 km² (4.90 sq mi). The terrain is gently undulating, with the highest point reaching approximately 150 m (492 ft) above sea level. The area is characterized by mixed agricultural land and forested patches, typical of the Breton interior.
Demographics
According to the most recent legal population figures before the merger (2019), Saint‑Guen had 368 inhabitants, yielding a population density of roughly 29 inhabitants per km². The demographic trend over the preceding decades showed a modest decline, reflecting broader patterns of rural depopulation in the region.
History
The name “Saint‑Guen” derives from the Breton saint Vien (also rendered as Gwenn), a figure associated with early medieval Brittany. The settlement’s origins trace back to the medieval period, with the parish church dedicated to Saint Guen historically serving as the communal focal point. The commune retained its rural character throughout the modern era, with agriculture and small‑scale livestock farming constituting the primary economic activities.
Landmarks and heritage
- Église Saint‑Guen: A parish church dating largely from the 16th century, featuring a simple nave, Gothic choir, and a notable 17th‑century bell tower. The interior houses a few modest religious artworks and a historic baptismal font.
- Manor houses (manoirs): Several traditional Breton manors are located within the former commune’s boundaries, reflecting the region’s historical landed estates.
Transport
Saint‑Guen was served by a network of departmental roads, notably the D2, providing links to the larger towns of Saint‑Brieuc and Plouha. The nearest railway station is in Saint‑Brieuc, approximately 20 km away.
Education
Prior to the merger, the commune operated a primary school (école primaire) serving local children. Secondary education institutions were located in nearby larger towns.
See also
- Communes of the Côtes-d'Armor department
- Guerlédan (new commune)
References
- INSEE, “Populations légales 2019”.
- Arrêté préfectoral 30 September 2016 establishing the commune of Guerlédan.
- French National Geographic Institute (IGN) cartographic data.