DK Travel : Normandy : Architecture

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Abbaye d’Ardennes, Caen

During the Battle of Normandy, 23 Canadian soldiers were executed at this 12th-century abbey on the outskirts of Caen; a memorial garden now commemorates them. The partially ruined abbey church is a fine example of Norman Gothic architecture.
Abbaye Notre-Dame, Le Bec-Hellouin

There is a marvellous view of the abbey, its creamy 18th-century buildings nestling in the lush valley, as you enter the village from the south on the D39. The 18th-century refectory has been converted into a simple church, where its founder’s sarcophagus lies sunk beneath the altar.
Abbaye St-Martin-de-Mondaye, Juaye-Mondaye

The monks of this small community welcome guests on retreat, and host summer concerts in their handsome 18th-century abbey.
Abbaye-aux-Dames, Caen

Like their founders William and Matilda, the Abbaye-aux-Hommes and Abbaye-aux-Dames (the first of the two to be built) are close cousins. The lovely convent buildings were designed by Guillaume de la Tremblaye.
Abbaye-aux-Hommes, Caen

Lanfranc was the first abbot of the abbey, which was founded by William the Conqueror and consecrated in his presence in 1077. Ten years later, William was buried, most unceremoniously, in the abbey’s church, St-Etienne.
Abbot de Rancé

Nobleman who renounced his former life and founded the Trappists in 1664.
Château de Balleroy

The château’s sumptuous interior has portraits of Napoleon and Wellington, confronting one another across the Waterloo Room. A hot-air balloon museum is housed in the stables.
Château de Beaumesnil

This glorious Baroque masterpiece, a frothy pile of pink brick and pale stone floating on its glassy moat, is perfectly complemented by the formal gardens that surround it.
Château de Bénouville

The monumental staircase is the star at this impressive yet charming Neo-Classical château.
Château de Bizy, Vernon

The interior of this handsome château set in an English-style park is graced by superb woodwork, tapestries and Empire furniture.