Originally dedicated to Saint Ivy, patron saint of the city of Pontivy, the church received the title of Minor Basilica in 1959. In the choir, the impressive marble and tuffeau altarpiece, begun in 1725, was made on the model of the architectural altarpieces of Laval and Anjou. The church also preserves a series of statues from the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries, stained glass windows made by Ernest-Victor Laumonnier in the 19th century, as well as an organ by the famous factors Dominique and Aristide Cavaillé-Coll.
At the end of the 12th century, the City of Pontivy faced epidemics. Abbé Claude Marquet, parish priest of the time, decided to address the Virgin in order to protect her city in the grip of terror. He organized a solemn procession in his honour and begged her to protect the city. The epidemic ended. Abbée Marquet decides to thank the Virgin by organizing a large procession in her honour.
Today, the forgiveness of Our Lady of Joy consecrates its memory. This year, forgiveness will take place during the European Heritage Days.
Practice:

• free visit of the basilica
• Pardon Our Lady of Joy: Saturday, September 17, Mass at 8 pm followed by a procession in the city of Pontivy; Sunday, September 18, High Mass at 10:30 am, followed by a parish meal (picnic)
• Place de Bourdonnaye du Clézio