Bayeux

Gateway to the beaches of Normandy and home to the famous tapestry

Centuries ago, the ducs de Normandie sent their sons to this Viking settlement to learn the Norse language. Bayeux has changed a lot since then, but was spared from bombardment in 1944. This was the first French town liberated, and the citizens gave de Gaulle an enthusiastic welcome when he arrived on June 14. The town is filled with timbered houses, stone mansions, and cobblestone streets.

Visitors wanting to explore sites associated with "the Longest Day" flood the town, because many memorials--not to mention the beaches--are only six to 12 miles away. Shops line the cozy little streets. Many sell World War II memorabilia, and more postcards and T-shirts than you'll ever need. In town, the Musee de la Tapisserie de Bayeux houses the city’s famous tapestry (actually, an embroidery on linen), which tells the story of the conquest of England by William the Conqueror The town goes wild on the first weekend in July during Fêtes Médiévales; the streets fill with wine and song during two days of medieval revelry.

© 2009, Wiley Publishing, Inc.