Since the area around Caen has so much to offer we spent, besides staying three nights, only two late afternoons and an early morning here. During this time we visited the Castle of Caen one afternoon. Since we had spent the day in Falaise it got rather late and we only managed the open access areas, but not the Museum of Normandy. I am still thinking about the missed exhibition of the Vikings, but maybe in another life. Even without the Vikings the museum would have been worth a visit though. Too bad that there was not enough time for everything.
Museum of Normandy @Caen
There is not much left of the castle today besides its walls. The walls have been restored in recent years and the city has a big plans for the rest of it. It will be ready in 2025, when Caen celebrates it 1000 year history. The castle itself is not that old, it has been built under William the Conqueror and enlarged during the time of his son Henry I. by a Donjon. Did I mention that we were on a history road trip?
impressive walls from this angle @Castle of Caen
not much to see from here @Castle of Caen
Apparently the castle had been deteriorating over time and during the French Revolution it was decided to destroy it. But the job got only half done. During the reign of Napoleon they finally managed to get it right and blew up what was then left of the castle of Caen. Really too bad that they achieved it in the end. This would have been a wonderful Norman castle. At least we had seen Falaise that day.
the castle in all its glory @Caen Castle
Getting on the walls afforded us a some view over the city, even though the walls are not that high. I was certainly impressed with what we could see from here.
view from the castle walls @Caen
The castle grounds were already much used by the locals, even on this overcast day. I am sure, now that the renovations will be finished soon, the castle will be spectacular and a meeting point for the locals. The celebrations for the 1000 year history will be from March 20-23 of this year. What a chance to celebrate the city! Yours, Pollybert
the grounds in front of the castle walls @Caen
