Description:

There has been a settlement in the area since 9th century when a small wooden tower was erected on knoll to act as a defence against Viking raids.  Guingamp is now a lively town which still retains its traditional medieval character.

Guingamp is a Sub Prefecture (sous prefet) of Saint Brieuc.

Guingamp is in the department of Cotes d'Armor in central Brittany and 30km west of Saint Brieuc.

The town covers an area of 3.41 km² and is crossed by the river Trieux.

There are two markets in Guingamp.  The largest is at the Place du Centre all day on a Saturday whilst a smaller market is held on Friday mornings in the Place du Vally.  For all other groceries there are three local supermarches.

Guingamp also has a lively shopping  street with lots of clothes stores and more traditional French craft shops.

Guingamp has all the key services you would expect from a small town including several schools, pharmacies, doctors, butchers, bakeries, beauty salons and butchers.  There are also 2 Post Offices and several small grocery stores.

Guingamp has a new modern media centre as well as a municipal theatre and a cinema.  There are also lots of restaurants catering for all tastes.

Guingamp has a long and rich history and is full of some beautiful architecture.  The remains of the Guingamp castle is now just 3 towers and its ramparts which have great views overlooking the valley.

A tour plan of the town, 'Circuit de Visite', is available form the local Tourist Office and offers an interesting journey through the history of Guingamp.

The 'Basilique Notre Dame de Bon Secours', with its unusual architecture,  is a shrine to the Black Virgin, who is celebrated on the first Saturday in July by a night procession with torches and bonfires.

The 'Gouel ar Bugale Vreizh', also held in July , is a colourful parade of 500 children dressed in traditional costume whilst the 'Saint Loup' festival in August is an international dance competition featuring Celtic dancers from all over the world.  During this week Guingamp becomes the capital of Breton dance and music!

Worth a visit:

• Visit the small, but comprehensive, museum of Breton Boules
• Sit at a pavement cafe and watch the world go by in the 18th century central square
• Stop by the 'Plomee' fountain in the central square which is dedicated to the goddess Ana

Guingamp is passionate about its football club En Avent de Guingamp.  The club won the 2008-9 Coupe de France holders and are in ligue 2 which is the second highest league in French football.

The surrounding area has great Mountain biking, Canoeing and Gold facilities.