The city of Saint-Malo, located in Brittany, France, has a rich historical tradition that can be traced back to its founding by the Welsh monk, Maclow, also known as Saint Maclou or Saint Malo.
He was a significant figure in the 6th century, establishing the bishopric of Aleth and a monastery in the area. Over time, the city has gained prominence through various transformations during the Middle Ages, as it evolved into a prominent commune with connections to other significant figures such as Saint Brendan and Saint Brandan, among the Seven Founding Saints of Brittany.
Throughout history, Saint-Malo played a crucial role in various events, including the establishment of the Parlement of Brittany. Its unique geographical position led to several crucial coastal and maritime connections with other areas, serving as a linchpin for political and social development. As a result, it has been an essential part of the way of life in the region, demonstrating how a small commune founded by a dedicated religious figure has grown and evolved over the centuries.
Key Takeaways
- Saint Malo was founded by the Welsh monk Maclow in the 6th century.
- The city gained prominence during the Middle Ages, with connections to other significant figures like Saint Brendan and Saint Brandan.
- Over time, Saint-Malo became an integral part of the region’s political, social, and maritime developments.
Maclow, the Founder of Saint-Malo
I am aware of the many names attributed to the patron saint of Saint-Malo, such as Maclow, Maclou, Maclovius, Sant Maloù, and Machut. Born in the 6th century in southeastern Wales, near the English border, this seafaring monk is recognized as one of the Seven Founding Saints of Brittany.
I have knowledge of the work titled The Life of S. Malo, or Machutes by Albert Le Grand, a Dominican friar and hagiographer who lived from 1599 to 1641. His writing, filled with legendary tales, narrates the life of the individual who would later give his name to the famous corsair city.
Fortunate Islands to Canalch
As a young boy, Maclow was sent to the monastery of Saint Brandan, where he was quickly noticed for his piety. One event that took place during his time at the monastery involved his duty to awaken the other monks and provide them with fire. Some envious peers tried to play a trick on him, but an angel intervened and lit the abbot’s lamp, revealing divine wonders within him.
Later on, Saint Brandan and Maclow embarked on a journey to find the Fortunate Islands, a mythical paradise on the edge of the world, where they aimed to spread their faith and bring the knowledge of Jesus Christ to the barbarians. After several years of sailing, Maclow returned to his monastery. His fascination with the hermit Aaron’s passion led Maclow to visit him. An angel, in fact, had foretold Maclow’s arrival to the Welshman.
Maclow, Bishop and Protector of Alet
In the Gallo-Roman city of Alet (known today under the name of Saint-Servan), across from the Canalch islet, the Welsh saint Malo led a life of a hermit alongside Aaron. After realizing that his divine mission was to work for the spiritual betterment of people, he left Aaron and joined the city built at the mouth of the Rance river. He regularly conducted mass in the Church of Saint-Pierre and performed numerous miracles.
He healed a tormented woman from demonic possession, restored sight to the blind, and even resurrected one dead. “After performing a prayer near a dead body, he presented water to the revived person in a marble vase. Through his divine blessing, the marble turned into crystal, and the water into wine. These three miracles earned him great respect and admiration from the citizens and the local nobles, who eventually built a monastery for him near the city.” Consequently, he was appointed as the bishop of the city.
However, he faced persecution and decided to leave Alet. According to Albert Le Grand, his departure brought forth disastrous consequences upon Alet, including plague, famine, and drought. These calamities were seen as punishment for the citizens’ ingratitude Maclow. A delegation located me in Saintonge and attempted to persuade him to return. After the appearance of an angel, he finally decided to journey back to the Breton coast.
Miraculously, the moment he returned to Brittany, the atmosphere changed. The plague abated throughout Aleth’s diocese, and ports filled with ships laden with grain and other necessities, eliminating the devastating famine. Despite these miracles, he returned permanently to Saintonge in 621, where he passed away over a century old. Seventy-five years later, another delegation retrieved his now-lost relics.
Believing in his miracles and contributions, the Roman Catholic Church honors him as one of the seven founding saints of continental Brittany.