Morlaix
Morlaix is a commune and subprefecture in the Finistère department of the Brittany region in northwestern France, situated at the estuary of the Morlaix River leading to the Bay of Morlaix.[1][2]
The town, with a population of 14,903 as of January 2024, features a preserved historic center characterized by 16th-century half-timbered houses known as maisons à pondalez, built by wealthy merchants during a period of prosperity from the canvas trade.[3][4]
Dominating the skyline is the Morlaix Viaduct, a monumental railway bridge constructed between 1861 and 1864 as part of the Paris-to-Brest line, featuring 58-metre-high stone arches that span the river valley and remain in active use.[5][6]
Historically a fishing village developed into a trading port since medieval times, Morlaix's economy has shifted toward tourism, leveraging its architectural heritage and proximity to coastal sites like the Château du Taureau in the bay.[7][8]