Ouistreham, Coastal commune in Calvados, France
Ouistreham is a port town where the Orne River meets the sea in Normandy, serving as a major crossing point between England and France. The town spreads along the riverbank and waterfront, with a busy harbor that connects to inland Caen through a canal network.
The town became significant during World War II when Allied forces landed here in 1944 to capture a nearby strategic bridge. This event left a lasting mark on the place and remains part of its story today.
The town comes alive on market days when local farmers and vendors gather to sell Norman products and regional foods. This tradition reveals how much daily life here is rooted in the land and its harvest.
The harbor offers regular ferry connections across the Channel to British and European destinations, with ample parking and clear signage for pedestrians. The best time to explore is early morning or late afternoon when the waterfront is less crowded.
Three fortified redoubts built in the 18th century according to designs by the famous French military engineer Vauban still stand in the commune today. These structures were later converted into private homes, showing how military buildings changed over time.
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