Dives-sur-Mer, commune in Calvados, France
Dives-sur-Mer is a small town on the Normandy coast, located at the mouth of the Dives River between Cabourg and Houlgate. The center is marked by medieval market halls from the 15th century that still serve as markets today, as well as the 11th-century Notre-Dame church, which houses an old statue of Christ.
The town was an important port from which William the Conqueror departed with his troops for England in 1066. The Notre-Dame church was built in 1067 and developed further after a local legend in which fishermen pulled a statue of Christ from the sea in 1001.
The town's name comes from the Dives River and its coastal setting. Today, the character of the place is shaped by old stone buildings, market halls, and narrow streets that reflect its identity as a historic trading and fishing community.
Saturday is the best day to visit when traditional markets with vegetables, flowers, and local crafts fill the streets. The town has walking paths along the river and harbor where you can stroll without leaving the main visiting areas.
According to local legend, fishermen pulled a rare statue of Christ from their nets in 1001, which led to the building of a church and attracted pilgrims. The original statue was later burned, but the event remained so alive in the town's memory that a replica stands in the church today.
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