The Men's Abbey in Caen
You cannot discover Caen without visiting the famous Abbaye aux Hommes (Men's Abbey).
Founded in the 11th century by William the Conqueror, this Benedictine abbey is one of Normandy's most prestigious monuments.
With its architecture, fascinating history, and museum spaces, it is a must-see attraction during your visit to the Norman capital.
Built starting in 1063, the Abbaye aux Hommes stands as a testament to the power of William the Conqueror.
Constructed in the Romanesque style and later enhanced with Gothic elements over the centuries, it impresses visitors with the elegance of its abbey church, Saint-Étienne the final resting place of the famous Duke of Normandy who became King of England.
Today, the former monastic buildings also house Caen's City Hall.
As you explore the site, you will discover the cloister, the warming room, and the scriptorium, as well as several exhibition rooms recounting the history of Caen and Normandy including the events of the summer of 1944 during the Battle of Normandy.
To delve deeper, you can opt for a guided tour (by reservation).
The site also regularly hosts temporary exhibitions.
📍Address: Esplanade Jean-Marie Louvel, 14027 Caen.
🕐Opening hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
💶Prices: From €5. Free for those under 18.
To make the most of the "Ducal City" and the Abbaye aux Hommes, stay at a hotel in Caen's city center.
Best Western Plus Le Moderne welcomes you just a short walk from Caen Castle, founded by William the Conqueror.
It is the perfect opportunity to explore the city on foot before continuing your trip to other must-see regional attractions, such as Mont-Saint-Michel, the D-Day Landing Beaches, or Deauville.
All our spacious, light-filled rooms are air-conditioned and offer the full comforts of a 4-star hotel.
After a day of sightseeing, treat yourself to a relaxing moment at the hotel bar and enjoy a Norman cider or beer.
Founded in the 11th century by William the Conqueror, this Benedictine abbey is one of Normandy's most prestigious monuments.
With its architecture, fascinating history, and museum spaces, it is a must-see attraction during your visit to the Norman capital.
A Romanesque and Gothic masterpiece
The Church of Saint-Étienne and the tomb of William the Conqueror
Built starting in 1063, the Abbaye aux Hommes stands as a testament to the power of William the Conqueror.
Constructed in the Romanesque style and later enhanced with Gothic elements over the centuries, it impresses visitors with the elegance of its abbey church, Saint-Étienne the final resting place of the famous Duke of Normandy who became King of England.
Today, the former monastic buildings also house Caen's City Hall.
A tour blending heritage and Norman history
As you explore the site, you will discover the cloister, the warming room, and the scriptorium, as well as several exhibition rooms recounting the history of Caen and Normandy including the events of the summer of 1944 during the Battle of Normandy.
To delve deeper, you can opt for a guided tour (by reservation).
The site also regularly hosts temporary exhibitions.
Practical information
📍Address: Esplanade Jean-Marie Louvel, 14027 Caen.
🕐Opening hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
💶Prices: From €5. Free for those under 18.
Where to stay in Caen?
To make the most of the "Ducal City" and the Abbaye aux Hommes, stay at a hotel in Caen's city center.
Best Western Plus Le Moderne welcomes you just a short walk from Caen Castle, founded by William the Conqueror.
It is the perfect opportunity to explore the city on foot before continuing your trip to other must-see regional attractions, such as Mont-Saint-Michel, the D-Day Landing Beaches, or Deauville.
All our spacious, light-filled rooms are air-conditioned and offer the full comforts of a 4-star hotel.
After a day of sightseeing, treat yourself to a relaxing moment at the hotel bar and enjoy a Norman cider or beer.
