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Bayeux, Normandy

The town of Bayeux, in the Calvados département of Lower Normandy, is world-famous for its Tapestry which depicts the conquest of England by William, Duke of Normandy, in 1066.

Though badly damaged during the Allied bombings of 1944, Bayeux still prides itself on its magnificent cathedral and historic town centre. Bayeux bobbin lace has been a regional speciality since the latter half of the 18th century - a number of lace workshops in the town still teach the art.

Bayeux town centre is only minutes away from the beaches of the Normandy Landings. To gain a better understanding of the background and unfolding of this historic event, one should visit the Battle of Normandy memorial museum.

Bayeux, a town steeped in history that you won't soon forget.
Though the area itself was inhabited, it was only in the 1st century BC that the town of Bayeux was established, at the time known as Augustrodurum. Ramparts were built in the 3rd century and stood at least until the 18th.

The city was evalgelized during the 6th century by Saint Vigor.
Destroyed by Normand raids in the Middle Ages, Bayeux was thereafter plundered extensively between the 12th century and the period of Religious Wars. During the 18th century, numerous construction programs were undertaken and religious edifices built while at the same time the development of lacework artistry boosted the economy - this artwork still maintains its reputation today.

The city was completely overrun during the Occupation and thus was spared by the heaviest of the bombings which shook the nation.
Tourist Information
OFFICE DE TOURISME DE BAYEUX
pont St Jean
14400
BAYEUX
BAYEUX
FRANCE
Tel:
02 31 51 28 28
Fax:
02 31 51 28 29