BAYEUX walking tour

Bayeux site was the first large town liberated by the allies in Normandy in 1944. Bayeux was not damaged at all during the Second World War. All different styles of architecture from Norman Roman through the Renaissance up to the modern day are represented in this town which was the capital of lower Normandy until the 11th century.

Without a doubt, one of the most impressive sites is the cathedral which sits in the heart of this historic town built between the 11th and 13th century under the order of Odon, bishop of Bayeux and William the Conqueror's half brother. This monumental architectural wonders using both roman and gothic styles continued to evolve right up until the end of the 18th century.

You can't talk about Bayeux without mentioning its famous tapestry site, an embroidered linen canvas over 200 feet long and about 18 inches large. It tells the story of William, Duke of Normandy, in 1065 and 1066, retracing all the events which led him to conquer England in October 1066 and depose the impostor Harold. On December 25th, 1066, William was crowned King of England. This 11th century "comic strip" is one of the best and most complete sources for historians to learn about and analyze medieval costumes, boat building and strategies that were used in both Norman and British camps leading up to the battle of Hasting.

Bayeux was liberated on June 7th by British units and was the first place to be visited in June 1944 by General Charles de Gaulle, leader of the Free French. The speech made on the Place du Chateau officially announced the liberation of the first French town after four long years of Nazi occupation. Bayeux became the official Free French capital until Paris was liberated on August 25th.

Having a nice and quiet walk in the old streets is the best way to enjoy the visit of this charming city. site