Dieppe, Coastal commune in Seine-Maritime, France
Dieppe is a commune on the Alabaster Coast in Normandy, spread along cliffs and pebble beaches. The town stretches from the harbor basin to the heights, where narrow lanes run between half-timbered houses and brick facades.
Vikings founded a settlement here in the 9th century, which later became a major port for trade with England. During World War II, the town experienced a costly Allied landing operation in August 1942.
The name likely comes from the Old English word "deep" and refers to the deep water off the coast. Fishermen still bring their catch directly to the harbor market, where locals buy fresh scallops and sole in the morning.
The town center is easy to explore on foot, while the climb to the castle on the hill requires some stamina. Ferries to England run several times a day and operate year-round.
In the 16th century, sea charts created here were used by navigators exploring new trade routes. The town was considered a leading center for cartography in Europe at the time.
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