Caen

Introducing Caen

The historic city of Caen, capital of Basse Normandie, has played a crucial role in Normandy’s history since it was founded in the 11th century by William the Conqueror. Some six centuries after the city was sacked and torched by invading English armies in 1346, Caen’s old town was levelled once more during the shattering bombardments of the Normandy campaign. The city was bombed and set ablaze on D-Day, and by the time it was liberated by Canadian troops on 9 July 1944, over 80% of the city had been razed to rubble. Practically all that remains of old Caen are the ramparts around the chateau and the city’s twin abbeys; the rest has been rebuilt in a typically utilitarian post-war style, using plenty of concrete and pale stone.

Today, Caen is a busy university city and commercial centre, with a clutch of excellent museums, including the groundbreaking Caen Mémorial. It’s a useful base for exploring the D-Day beaches and nearby Bayeux.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009