Caen castle

During this period of festivity to celebrate the 1100-year anniversary of the foundation of Normandy, this monograph on Caen Castle is a perfectly fitting initiative. Indeed, what would Normandy be had the castle never existed? Would Duke William have donned his conquering spirit had he not organised the Council of Peace in Caen in the year 1047 - hence settling his discord with the barons he defeated at the Battle of Val-ès-Dunes?

Caen Castle is not only a major landmark in Norman history, and a fine example of medieval castle architecture, it has also been a constantly occupied source of local life for almost a thousand years. Each period in history has left its own mark, each monument bearing witness to the site's wealth or to its trials and tribulations. Yet the castle is far more than just a Historic Monument. It is also the ideal destination for a pleasant stroll, a family outing, new discoveries, festivities... The list is long and there are as many facets to the castle as there are visitors to the site. So wait no longer, come and discover yours.

Philippe Martin Chairman of the Association des Amis du Musée de Normandie