Plouha - Chapelle de Kermaria-an-Iskuit

The Kermaria-an-Iskuit chapel has undergone many changes over the centuries. The construction of the oldest existing part is contributed to Henri d'Avaugour (+ 1183), count of Trégor and Goëlo, to give thanks after having returned from a crusade. In the 15th century the porch, seen here, and the transverse chapel were added.

During the 19th century the structure was in real danger, when the parish priest wanted to demolish the chapel in order to construct the "modern" village church. The population resisted this plans - and so saved the building.

Once this chapel was a place for pilgrimages, as the chapel is dedicated to the worship of "Itron Varia an Iskuit" (Saint Mary of the Healing) and following the local information, a traditional feast is still celebrated on the 3rd Sunday in September.

There are some extraordinary statues here. I found three different statues of Virgin Mary holding infant Jesus. Here Jesus seems seems not to like breastfeeding.

A "Nursing Madonna" (aka "Madonna Lactans", "Maria lactans") was a popular "icon" from the 14th century on. There is even a "Lactatio Bernardi", based on vision of Bernard of Clairvaux where the Virgin sprinkled milk on Bernard´s lips.