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William the Conqueror, of course, Duke of Normandy

Listed as a Historic Monument, the Saint-Martin-Saint-Hilaire church is one of the most beautiful Romanesque buildings in the Pays de Falaise region. Its Romanesque nave, flanked by two side aisles and topped by a magnificent wooden frame, contrasts with its choir, extended by a flamboyant Gothic chevet. Its keystones adorned with coats of arms, its sumptuous, perfectly preserved Roman portal, and its archivolt with zigzags characteristic of Norman Romanesque style make it a work of art in its own right. The capitals, like the entire portal, date from the second half of the 12th century.

The church, built on the foundations of a small Gallo-Roman temple, is one of the principal Romanesque buildings in Normandy. It houses the organ by Parizot (1745-1746). On the outskirts of the church, the Guibray Fair was established by William the Conqueror. Starting on the Wednesday before the Assumption, it hosted merchants selling cloth, hides, fabrics, and silks. This important fair also allowed the Falaise region to sell its agricultural products. The largest fair in the west, second in France after Beaucaire, it was as renowned as those in Troyes or Provins. Its famous horse fair lasted until the early 20th century.

Ancient fortifications which protected the town of Falaise, mainly known as the birthplace of William the Conqueror. Very beautiful and impressive building!

Castle at Falaise, which is best known for being the birthplace of William the Conqueror

The Château de Cuy in Occagnes is a 17th century castle with classic architecture. Its elegant facades, roofs and entrance doors are classified as historic monuments. You can admire the castle from the outside, but the interior is not open to the public as it is private property.

The Porte des Cordeliers is a medieval gate and one of the remains of the fortified enclosure which surrounded the town of Falaise, birthplace of William the Conqueror. The gate was built in the 13th century and was guarded by Franciscan monks, also known as Cordeliers. You can admire the architecture of the gate and its neighboring tower, as well as the view of the countryside and the Château de Falaise.

Medieval tower