Bayeux

Bayeux is a small city located in Normandy, in the north of France. The ancient city is the home of the famous Bayeux Tapestry, which depicts the Norman conquest of England. However, the medieval city has a lot more to offer and it is also a great base to use in order to visit the World War II beaches in northern Nomandy.

Bayeux boasts a rich architectural heritage and nothing epitomises this more than the city’s Notre-Dame cathedral, which is designed in Romanesque and Gothic styles. Alternatively, simply wander along the banks of the River Aure and you will be amazed by Bayeux’s beautifully preserved timber-framed houses and elegant private residences.

  • Did you know that the Bayeux Tapestry is 70m long and 50cm wide!

 to See & Do in The City 

  • Bayeux Tapestry: Each year around 400,000 visitors from around the world come to the Museum of the Tapestry of Queen Matilda to admire this key work of the Middle Ages. Listed as a “World Heritage” by UNESCO, the enormous Tapestry tells of story of the Conquest of England by William the Conqueror.
  • Notre-Dame Cathedral: Situated in the heart of the city, the Bayeux cathedral is an architectural gem and remarkably well preserved. The cathedral was consecrated on 14 July 1077 and it was here that William forced Harold Godwinson to take an oath, the breaking of which led to the Norman conquest of England. The cathedral has 11th century Romanesque towers and a groin-vaulted crypt, which is decorated with 15th century frescos.
  • Botanical  Garden: The botanical garden of Bayeux is a delightful 19th century landscaped park that was designed by the Bühler brothers. Within the park, there is a trail that invites visitors to discover the botanical treasures that are found within the park.
  • Musuems: Bayeux is home to a wide range of museums to cater for all interests. There is the Memorial Museum of the Battle of Normandy, the Baron Gerard Art and History Museum and also the British Military Cemetery from World War II.
  • Around Bayeux: If you are keen to explore the rest of Normandy, Bayeux is an excellent place to use as a base. There is so much history around this region, mostly centred around World War II so be sure to explore the D-Day beaches, the beautiful French countryside or some other popular cities, such as Caen, Le Havre or Rouen.

 

bayeux tapesty