Maison de la Fontaine, Brest
Historic Building
The Maison de la Fontaine is one of the best places to visit in Brest for lovers of heritage and contemporary art. Located in the historic Recouvrance district, it overlooks the Penfeld River and stands as one of the few buildings to survive the destruction of World War II. Dating from the late 17th or early 18th century, it offers a rare glimpse of old Brest in a city largely rebuilt after wartime devastation.
Today, the house is a cultural gem. Its rooms host rotating exhibitions of photography, painting, sculpture, graphic arts, and multimedia installations. Artist residencies and creative workshops add a hands-on dimension, making it a highlight of any walking tour of Brest for visitors seeking authentic local culture.
Table of Contents
- History and Significance of the Maison de la Fontaine
- Things to See and Do in the Maison de la Fontaine
- How to Get There
- Practical Tips on Visiting the Maison de la Fontaine
- Where to Stay close to the Maison de la Fontaine
- Is the Maison de la Fontaine Worth Visiting?
- FAQs for Visiting the Maison de la Fontaine
- Nearby Attractions to the Maison de la Fontaine
History and Significance of the Maison de la Fontaine
Built during a period when Recouvrance was a bustling maritime district, the Maison de la Fontaine originally belonged to a family engaged in local commerce. Its stone façade and compact Breton architecture reflect the everyday life of pre-war Brest, when narrow streets and small houses lined the riverbank.
Much of the city was destroyed during World War II, but the Maison de la Fontaine survived, becoming a precious survivor of Brest's architectural heritage. Recognizing its cultural value, the city restored the building and transformed it into an artistic venue, ensuring that it remains both a monument and a living creative space.
Today, it serves as a bridge between past and present-honoring Brest’s history while supporting contemporary artistic expression.
Things to See and Do in the Maison de la Fontaine
Visitors can enjoy regularly changing exhibitions featuring local, national, and international artists. These shows cover a wide variety of mediums, from classic painting and sculpture to experimental multimedia and video art.
The venue also hosts workshops for adults and children, encouraging hands-on creativity. Artist residencies bring fresh perspectives, allowing creators to use the historic space as inspiration for new work.
Its intimate size makes the experience personal and immersive, and its free admission makes it accessible to all.
How to Get There
The Maison de la Fontaine sits at the heart of Recouvrance. Visitors arriving by air can reach it from Brest Bretagne Airport in around 20 minutes. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Brest on Booking.com.
If traveling by car, limited street parking is available in Recouvrance and along the river.
Those arriving by train can cross the Pont de Recouvrance on foot or take a short tram or bus ride from Brest station. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.
Practical Tips on Visiting the Maison de la Fontaine
- Best time to visit the Maison de la Fontaine: Weekdays for quieter viewing.
- Entrance fee in Euros: Free.
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday; extended hours during special events.
- Official website: Search for Maison de la Fontaine Brest for exhibition schedules.
- How long to spend: 30 minutes to one hour.
- Accessibility: Some limitations due to the historic layout.
- Facilities: Basic services; additional amenities nearby in Recouvrance.
- Photography tip: Capture the façade from the riverside path.
- Guided tours: Offered occasionally during cultural events.
- Nearby food options: Cafés and small restaurants in Recouvrance and Rue de Siam.
Where to Stay close to the Maison de la Fontaine
For a convenient location between the city center and Recouvrance, consider Oceania Brest Centre, close to the river crossing. Another option is Hôtel l'Amirauté, offering comfort and easy access to key attractions. Visitors seeking budget-friendly practicality may prefer Hôtel Center Brest.
Is the Maison de la Fontaine Worth Visiting?
Yes, the Maison de la Fontaine is absolutely worth visiting. Its blend of historic charm, free exhibitions, and creative programming makes it a rewarding stop for anyone exploring Brest's cultural scene.
What Other Travellers Say...
Maison de la Fontaine, 18 Rue de l'Église, Brest — a small, well‑located historic house with two fountains outside and a glimpse of the harbor, now used as a free cultural space hosting rotating exhibitions and offering free workshops for children and adults led by passionate artists; visitors praise the welcoming staff, informative displays, and the chance to see local and quirky themed shows (past topics mentioned include sand‑circle discoveries and related legends), though check opening days as it may occasionally be closed.
FAQs for Visiting the Maison de la Fontaine
Nearby Attractions to the Maison de la Fontaine
- Pont de Recouvrance: A towering lift bridge with river views.
- Tour Tanguy: A medieval tower with dioramas of old Brest.
- Ateliers des Capucins: A cultural center with exhibitions and cafés.
- Château de Brest: A major fortress housing the Musée National de la Marine.
- Rue de Siam: A lively shopping and dining street nearby.
The Maison de la Fontaine appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Brest!
Moira & Andy
Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!
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Planning Your Visit
Nearby Attractions
- Maison de la Fontaine-Brest (0) km
Arts Venue - Tour Tanguy (0.2) km
Tower - Pont de Recouvrance (0.3) km
Bridge - Musée National de la Marine (0.4) km
Museum - Château de Brest (0.4) km
Castle - Capucins Cable Car (0.7) km
Cable Car - Musée des Beaux-Arts de Brest (0.8) km
Gallery - Cours Dajot (0.9) km
Walk - Rue de Siam (0.9) km
Street - Port of Brest (1.1) km
Port
