In Caen, history is not only visited, it is heard in the stone. The walls of William the Conqueror's castle recount the Middle Ages, Mathilde and William's abbeys impose their quiet Romanesque style, and Gothic churches still rise with their towers over the city. Between the half-timbered houses of Vaugueux, the stately mansions downtown, and the museums safeguarding the memory of war, Caen combines grandeur and gentleness. The Memorial recalls dark times; the gardens breathe with renewed peace. The city progresses without ever forgetting what it once was. Walking in Caen means crossing a thousand years of history in a few steps, from the ducal era to that of the resistors.
Caen, France
Built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, the castle overlooks the town from its hill. Walls, keep, chapel: everything here speaks of power and defense. One of the largest fortified complexes in Europe.
Caen, France
A Romanesque abbey founded in the 11th century by Queen Matilda, wife of William the Conqueror. The church has a basilica plan with a facade featuring twin towers.
Caen, France
Located within the castle grounds, the museum displays European works from the Middle Ages to the present day. Paintings, sculptures, engravings: a dialogue between eras in a historically significant setting.
Caen, France
On the banks of the Orne, this 15th-century tower once protected the port and served as a control post. Its sturdy appearance retains the memory of merchants and customs officers.
Caen, France
Major museum dedicated to World War II, peace, and human rights. A place of history and reflection on the 20th century and its scars, including a section on the Normandy invasion and battle.
Caen, France
Created in 1848, this botanical garden gathers thousands of species, from tropical greenhouses to the arboretum. A haven of tranquility close to the city center.
Caen, France
Romanesque masterpiece founded by William the Conqueror in 1063, now the town hall. The nave, tall and bright, houses the tomb of the duke who became king of England.
Caen, France
17-hectare public park developed on a former landfill, with themed gardens, a rose garden, a maze, and views of the city.
Caen, France
13th-century religious monument with flamboyant Gothic architecture, a 73-meter high bell tower, and detailed facade sculptures.
Caen, France
11-hectare public park including an arboretum, walking trails, natural meadows, and arranged resting areas.
Caen, France
14th-century religious building with a central nave, stone vaults, and medieval stained glass windows depicting biblical scenes.
Caen, France
Cultural institution located in the Ducal Castle showcasing archaeological and ethnographic collections on Norman history since prehistory.
Caen, France
Aristocratic building designed by architect Claude Nicolas Ledoux in the 18th century, located in the commune of Bénouville.
Caen, France
Old district of Caen with cobbled streets, 15th-century half-timbered houses, and traditional shops.
Caen, France
French classical style green space with geometric flowerbeds, a rose garden, and aligned centuries-old lime trees.
Caen, France
Architectural model of ancient Rome in the 4th century, made in plaster over 70 square meters by architect Paul Bigot.
Caen, France
Educational center displaying preserved specimens, insects, and local minerals. Visitors learn about the Norman ecosystem through interactive exhibits.
Caen, France
The museum displays military objects, documents, and photographs related to the Pegasus Bridge. It commemorates the actions of British forces on June 6, 1944.
Caen, France
The largest amusement park in Normandy offering roller coasters, carousels, and shows. Attractions are inspired by Norman history and Vikings.
Caen, France
These 15th and 16th-century dwellings showcase traditional Norman architecture with their exposed wooden facades and overhanging upper floors.
Caen, France
Religious monument built in the 11th century under the order of William the Conqueror, housing his tomb since the Middle Ages.
Caen, France
Central square in Caen with half-timbered buildings and a statue of Louis XIV. It is surrounded by restaurants and shops.
Caen, France
Church from the 14th century transformed into a municipal exhibition hall after the French Revolution. It features both Romanesque and Gothic styles.
Caen, France
Weekly outdoor market where local producers sell fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and regional products on Friday mornings.
Caen, France
Stone building constructed in the 16th century featuring a columned gallery, richly sculpted portal, and hexagonal tower.
Caen, France
Medieval residence built in 1460, consisting of three overhanging stories with visible beams and wooden carvings.
Caen, France
Art center housed in a former 17th-century convent presenting contemporary art collections and temporary exhibitions.
Caen, France
Museum space located in old medieval fortifications tracing the urban evolution of Caen from the Middle Ages to the present day.