The Ladies’ Abbey of Caen
A journey through time
Located in Calvados, in Normandy, Caen is a dynamic and charming city, rich in a thousand-year-old history.
Founded by William the Conqueror, the town retains an exceptional architectural heritage. Caen is also a university and cultural city with its numerous museums, theaters and festivals which take place all year round.
Lovers of history, gastronomy and nature, you will find something to satisfy all your desires in Caen.
In the footsteps of the Conqueror in Caen
A little history
The Abbaye aux Dames de Caen is closely linked to the history of William the Conqueror. This Duke of Normandy and King of England was the husband of Mathilde.
Founded in 1066, the abbey was to accommodate the daughters of the royal couple.
The abbey church, a true jewel of Norman Romanesque architecture, today houses Mathilde’s tomb.
👉🏻 Admire the finesse of the sculptures and let yourself be transported by the solemn atmosphere of this place.
👉🏻Walk through the cloisters and imagine the daily life of the nuns who once occupied these settings. Discover the vestiges of the monastic past such as:
- The Gothic sink
- The chapter house
A haven of peace in the heart of Caen
The Abbaye aux Dames de Caen is a green oasis in the heart of the city.
We appreciate :
❤️ Its terraced gardens and their panoramic view of the surrounding area
❤️ The peaceful stroll in the shaded paths
❤️ Colorful flower beds
As you will have understood, the site is an ideal place to relax and recharge your batteries. It is also a perfect place for a picnic with family or friends.
Practical information
Hours of operation :
- Open all year round, with some exceptions
- From 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and from 1:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays
- From 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends
Self-guided and free tours/Guided tours according to different slots.
Access from your hotel: 20 minutes on foot.
Book a hotel in Caen
Treat yourself to a stay in a historic hotel in Caen, built in 1950 and restored identically after the war.
This 4-star hotel in the heart of Normandy is made for you:
- 42 spacious, air-conditioned and comfortable rooms
- Neat decoration and friendly atmosphere
- Bar
- Free WIFI
👉🏻 Château de Caen (10 minutes)
👉🏻 Vaugueux district (10 minutes)
👉🏻 Abbaye aux Hommes (15 minutes)
Then move away, so as not to miss:
- Mont-Saint-Michel, Arromanches, the landing beaches
- Bayeux, Deauville and Honfleur less than an hour’s drive