Aquinparcorentin, Campacorentin, Camparcorentin, Campercorentin, Campucorentin, Kemper-Korentin, Percorentin
Quimper is a historic city located in the Brittany region of northwestern France.
It was one of Arthur’s several courts. It was the home of Lady Lisanor (Lyzianor) (the mother by Arthur of Sir Loholt) and Sir Aces.
Its chief city in the romances is Beaumont.
Today the city is called Quimper, but historically it was known as Quimper-Corentin. The name refers to the city’s association with Saint Corentin, the patron saint of Quimper.
Quimper | 0 to 800 AD
Roman Period | 1st – 5th centuries AD
During the Roman period, the region that would later become Quimper was likely inhabited by Celtic tribes. The Roman presence in Brittany was relatively limited compared to other parts of the Roman Empire. Archaeological evidence suggests some Roman influence in the area, including the presence of Roman roads and artifacts.
Migration Period | 5th – 7th centuries AD
The fall of the Roman Empire in the fifth century marked the beginning of the Migration Period, during which various Germanic and Celtic tribes moved across Europe. The Breton people, related to the Britons of what is now England, migrated to Brittany (Armorica) during this period. The region saw an influx of Breton settlers, who established their distinct cultural and linguistic identity.
Breton Christianization
The process of Christianization in Brittany began in the fifth and sixth centuries. Missionaries, including Saint Pol Aurelian, played a role in spreading Christianity in the region. The association with Saint Corentin, the first Bishop of Quimper, is significant in the early Christian history of the area. According to legend, Corentin established a bishopric in the region, and his name is closely tied to the city.
Viking Raids | 8th – 9th centuries AD
The Viking raids and invasions that affected much of coastal Europe also impacted Brittany. Vikings, or Norsemen, targeted coastal areas, including Quimper. The Vikings, however, were not only raiders but also settlers. Over time, they established a presence in the region, contributing to the cultural and social mix of Brittany.
Emergence of Early Settlements
While detailed records from this period are limited, it is likely that early settlements and communities began to take shape in the area that would become Quimper. These settlements would have been influenced by both Breton and Norse cultures.
See also
Sevain of Quimper-Corentin | The Legend of King Arthur
Sources
First Continuation of Chrétien’s Perceval | Attributed to Wauchier of Denain, c. 1200
Vulgate Lancelot | 1215-1230
Lancelot do Lac | 1215-1220
Vulgate Merlin | 1220-1235