Bayeux Tourism: Museums, castles and historic buildings
Bayeux Tapestry
World-renowned, the Bayeux Tapestry is a unique masterpiece. An 11th-century work of art, 70 meters long and 0.50 meters wide, made of linen embroidered with colored wool, it depicts in 58 scenes the reasons and circumstances of the expedition of William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy, and his army in 1066. This superb work is believed to have been commissioned by Odo, William's half-brother and Bishop of Bayeux, from an Anglo-Saxon workshop for later display in the nave of his cathedral.
Notre Dame Cathedral
An exceptional site that underwent numerous embellishments and modifications between the 13th and 15th centuries. It overlooks the city center of Bayeux, a town with an exceptional heritage. The Cathedral is open for visits daily during the season.
Lace Conservatory
This workshop aims to preserve the know-how passed down by the lacemakers of Bayeux since the 17th century. The Lace Conservatory continues to teach bobbin lace techniques. Exhibition, demonstrations, sales. Self-guided tours.
Also worth seeing in Bayeux
General de Gaulle Memorial.
Memorial Museum of the Battle of Normandy.
Augustinian Convent.
Benedictine Monasteries…
Colombières Castle
The Château de Colombières dates from the late 14th century. Originally, it was one of the many fortresses erected around the 10th and 11th centuries to resist English invasions. Over the centuries, this castle, built on the edge of a marsh and surrounded by a still-watery moat, has suffered the ravages of time as well as architectural modifications. From generation to generation, successive owners have lovingly cared for the château. Count and Countess Etienne de Maupéou are delighted to welcome you to this family home nestled in an enchanting landscape, perfect for inspiring dreams.
Saint-Martin Abbey of Juaye-Mondaye
Founded in 1202, Saint-Martin de Mondaye Abbey is nestled in the heart of the Normandy countryside, a haven of peace and tranquility. This place of silence and serenity belongs to the Premonstratensian Order. In remarkable, understated buildings rebuilt in the 18th century, canons dedicate themselves to prayer and the service of the church.
Balleroy Castle
It was one of François Mansart's first works. This elegant site is nestled in greenery, near a large forest of oaks and beeches, rich in game. The French formal garden, designed by André Le Nôtre, is a veritable embroidery of boxwood. The outbuildings are arranged symmetrically on either side. One of them houses the International Balloon Museum, created in 1975 by Malcolm S. Forbes. On the other side of the château, a large, partially wooded park opens onto the surrounding countryside, once providing a starting point for stag hunts
