Caen hotels

Hotels in Caen

Best known for being the burial location of the formidable Norman king, William the Conqueror, Caen is Normandy's second-largest city and a popular base for exploring northwestern France and Normandy's attractive coastline.

A brief history

The city was founded by William the Conqueror in the Norman period, when many grand landmarks were built in the city, including a large castle and several abbeys. However, the city was besieged by the English in the Battle of Caen in 1346, although it was not captured until the following century, when King Henry V attacked Normandy, despite strong opposition from local inhabitants. 15 years later, Henry VI, Henry V's only child, founded the University of Caen there while he served as the King of France.

Landmarks:

Abbaye aux Dames (Women's Abbey)

See the enchanting Abbaye aux Dames, which marked its 950th anniversary in 2012 and was founded by William the Conqueror's wife, Matilda. The building is one of the most impressive Romanesque buildings in France, although much of the site was destroyed in the Hundred Years' War and redesigned in the 18th century.

Abbaye aux Hommes (Men's Abbey)

Established the year after the Abbaye aux Dames was founded, the Abbaye aux Hommes is another excellent example of French Romanesque architecture. The site was altered in the 14th and 18th centuries, and houses the tomb of William the Conqueror in its chancel. The abbey was also was the home of the highly regarded Lycée Malherbe school for more than 150 years until 1961.

The Château

Also dating back to the 11th century, the Château de Caen was besieged during the Hundred Years' War and the French Revolution, although much of the original structure has fortunately remained intact. The castle, one of the largest in France, is the home of the popular Musée de Normandie and the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Caen, and received a significant refurbishment in the 2000s.

Other places of interest in Normandy

Honfleur

Featuring one of Europe's most photogenic harbours, Honfleur is acclaimed for its vibrant cafés and large wooden Sainte-Catherine church. The commune has been an inspiration for many prominent artists, one of the most famous of whom was Monet, who painted 'Mouth of the Seine' here in 1865.

Le Havre

Although perhaps best known for being France's second busiest port, Le Havre is the home of the acclaimed André Malraux Modern Art Museum, known for its extensive collection of impressionist artworks. The centre of the city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also home to a majestic 15th-century cathedral, which is known for its attractive Baroque façade and was fortunately spared significant damage during the Second World War.

Hotels

For excellent value for money Caen hotels, stay in the elegant Hotel du Château, La Consigne or Adagio Caen Centre. For a chic venue overlooking the city's pleasant port, consider the Mercure Caen Centre Port de Plaisance.