Visit Bayeux
BAYEUX CATHEDRAL
A visit to Bayeux starts with the history and secrets of the Cathedral, a jewel of Norman architecture listed as a Historic Monument in the heart of the old town. A must-see for all art and history buffs!
The first Bayeux Cathedral was dedicated in July 1077 by Bishop Odon de Conteville, brother of William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy and King of England. It was destroyed by fire in the 12th century and rebuilt in Gothic style in the 13th century. History tells us that it was to decorate the nave of the cathedral that Odon had the Bayeux Tapestry, a masterpiece of the Middle Ages, embroidered.
During your visit, discover this emblematic monument of Normandy, the Treasure Room and the Chapter House, and admire its sumptuous stained glass windows and the sculptural work that adorns the building.
Also worth seeing: Around the cathedral, the historic centre, which was completely spared in 1944, boasts a rich heritage of timber-framed houses, manor houses with towers and private mansions.
Good to know: The tourist office organises guided tours of the cathedral in summer: Adults: €5 - 11/17 year olds: €3 - Free for children under 10.
THE BAYEUX TAPESTRY
Listed as a Memory of the World by UNESCO, the Bayeux Tapestry is a gigantic 11th-century embroidery that tells the story of the conquest of England by William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy and King of England. The Bayeux Tapestry plunges you into the heart of history and illustrates William the Conqueror's conquest of the throne of England, from 1064 to the Battle of Hastings, which marked his decisive victory.
The Bayeux Tapestry is now on display at the William the Conqueror Centre, very close to the hotel. It's easy to get to the former Bayeux seminary, which now houses this masterpiece of Romanesque art, listed on UNESCO's Memory of the World Register.
The Bayeux Tapestry in figures :
Built between 1066 and 1082
A strip of embroidered linen 70 metres long and 50 centimetres high
Embroidery of 9 natural shades of wool on pieces of linen weighing almost 350 kilos
Are you planning to visit Bayeux and admire the famous Tapestry? Discover the rooms at the Hôtel Le Bayeux*** and book your stay in Normandy now!
