As a result of the Reformation taking place in other parts of France, the Bretons expressed the renewal of their Roman-catholic faith by a stricter and more regular practice as well as money donations to the local churches.

Not only the interiors became more colorful and highly decorated and were used to teach illiterate people the Bible and the stories of local saints, but also the exteriors changed.

Monumental porches were built at the entrance of churches and walls were built around cemeteries in order to divide the sacred from the secular. Triumphal gateways lead into these parish closes, passing by a great calvary or even an ossuary.