Église de Sainte-Mère-Église

The church features a square bell tower rising above its stone walls, combining Romanesque foundations with Gothic architectural elements throughout its structure.

Built in the 12th century, this church gained worldwide recognition during D-Day in 1944 when American paratrooper John Steele's parachute caught on its spire.

The church maintains its role as a central place of worship while serving as a memorial to the Allied forces who participated in the D-Day landings.

Visitors can observe a mannequin paratrooper permanently attached to the church spire, representing John Steele's experience during the Normandy invasion.

The church bells rang during the night of June 5-6, 1944, alerting German troops to the arrival of Allied paratroopers in the surrounding fields.

Inception: 11 century

Architectural style: Romanesque architecture, Gothic architecture

GPS coordinates: 49.40870,-1.31639

Latest update: June 23, 2025 09:48