The big model of Rosmeur harbour

Introduction : life at the harbour

At the beginning of the 20th century the streets and quays of Douarnenez are filled with work provided by the sea. In the alley ways one can smell brine, fish, fish eggs and the hot oil of fried foods. The nets are suspended from the facades of the houses, on the masts of the boats. The women work in the canneries. The men are fishermen, commercial sailors or work in the navy. In 1924 Douarnenez has the highest number of maritime registrants in France and has been the first harbour for sardine fishing for a while in Brittany.