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Museum · Bayeux, Normandia
Mémorial de Caen
Large museum about 20th-century history, from the First World War to the fall of the Berlin Wall, with a whole section dedicated to D-Day and the Battle of Normandy.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Mémorial de Caen
The Mémorial de Caen is a museum dedicated to 20th-century history and peace, recognized as a Musée de France. It is located in Caen, the nearest large city to the landing beaches, about 30 km from Bayeux.
The routes cover 1919 to 1989, from the Treaty of Versailles to the fall of the Berlin Wall. The World War II section includes the areas "Guerre mondiale, guerre totale" and "Le Débarquement et la Bataille de Normandie"; a wing opened in 2002 is dedicated to the Cold War.
Caen was almost completely destroyed in the fighting of the summer of 1944, and the museum gives weight to civilians' experience as well as that of soldiers. The exhibition is extensive and parts of the routes change frequently.
The Mémorial also organizes guided circuits to the D-Day beaches and runs the Arromanches 360 cinema. For those arriving by train in Caen, it makes a good first stop before heading to the coast.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 2½ to 4 hours.
Best time
At the start of your trip through the region, to visit the beaches with context. Open most of the year; check closing days.
How to get there
It's north of Caen. From Gare de Caen there is a city bus to the museum; check the line. From Bayeux it's about 30 km by car or a few minutes by train to Caen.
Tip
Allow half a day: the museum is large. If you're also visiting the beaches the same day, start here early.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Mémorial de Caen
Does the Mémorial de Caen only cover D-Day?
No. It covers the 20th century from 1919 to 1989, with sections on the Second World War, D-Day and the Cold War.
How much time should I allow for the Mémorial de Caen?
From two and a half to four hours. It is one of the largest history museums in Europe.
How do I get to the Mémorial from Bayeux?
By car, about 30 km. By train, go to Caen and take the city bus to the museum.