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Castle · Caen, Normandy
Caen Castle
Fortress founded by William the Conqueror around 1060, with more than five hectares enclosed by walls in the city center. Within the grounds are the Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum 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 Caen Castle
Caen Castle was founded around 1060 by William, Duke of Normandy, a few years before he conquered England. At about 5.5 hectares enclosed by walls, it is among the largest fortified enclosures in Europe. In its early days it functioned more as a ducal residence than a fortress: the court, with the palace and the chapel of Saint George, was located there.
In the early 12th century, William’s son Henry I ordered the construction of a square keep, of which only the foundations remain. In 1204 the castle was taken without a fight by the King of France, Philip Augustus, who strengthened the defenses. The walls seen today largely date from that period and from works in later centuries.
The grounds house two museums. The Museum of Fine Arts, in a 1970 building, collects European painting from the 15th to the 20th century. The Museum of Normandy, installed in the former Logis des gouverneurs, covers the history and traditions of the region. The garden and the walls can also be explored.
The exterior spaces have been refurbished and offer paths and green areas within the walls. Check the museums’ schedules and access conditions before your visit.
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
One hour for the walls and the grounds; add one to two hours for each museum.
Best time
In the morning or late afternoon, when the light enhances the stone of the walls. The museums are closed on some days and holidays; check ahead before going.
How to get there
It is in the center, above the Church of Saint Peter. From Caen station you can reach it by tram or in about a 20-minute walk.
Tip
Climb the walls from the south side to see the Church of Saint Peter and the city center. Combine the visit with the Vaugueux neighborhood at the foot of the castle.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Caen Castle
Who built the Castle of Caen?
William, Duke of Normandy, known as William the Conqueror, around 1060. The castle was enlarged by his successors and later by the kings of France.
What is inside the Castle of Caen?
The walls, the foundations of the ducal palace and the keep, the Chapel of Saint George, the Museum of Fine Arts and the Normandy Museum.
Is the Castle of Caen large?
Yes. The enclosure covers about 5.5 hectares, placing it among the largest fortified castles in Europe.