Abbaye aux Hommes Tours
The Abbey of Saint-Étienne in Caen is also known as the Abbaye aux Hommes (Men's Abbey), to distinguish it from the Abbaye aux Dames (Women's Abbey) close by. If it looks a bit like an English cathedral, you're on the right track – this stunning example of Norman Romanesque architecture indeed served as the inspiration for so many churches on the other side of the Channel. (Although keen-eyed visitors will notice the Gothic apse, a sign of the church's architectural evolution.)
There are two highlights of the Abbaye aux Hommes; the first is the tomb of William the Conqueror, whose mark on Normandy has never been forgotten. The second is a bit of a hidden gem – the cloistered gardens, accessible by going through the town hall. It's another world inside there, and a favorite with photographers.
Practical Info
The Abbaye aux Hommes has varying open hours, so it is best to consult its website before visiting. Hours are dependent on the season and the regional school calendar. The former monastery is sometimes open for individual exploration and guided tours, although it is, of course, closed when religious ceremonies are in progress.
Address: 100 Rue de l'Ancienne Mairie, Caen 14000, France
Hours: Varies, depending on season
2 Tours and Activities to Experience Abbaye aux Hommes
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Caen Like a Local: Customized Private Tour
With our walking tours, you’ll skip the mundane historical tours and discover the city through a local’s eyes. Experience a tour that will transform the way you travel to make it as much about the people you meet, as it is the places you see. Our local guides (Lokafyers) are passionate about their city and eager to share their knowledge and perspective. Since Lokafyers are not professional guides and tour occasionally, they provide an experience that’s authentic and personal, like a friend showing you around their city. By the end of the tour, you'll feel comfortable navigating the city and confident that you have all the information you need to make the most of your stay.
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From
$40.34
Price varies by group size
From
$40.34
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Private Tour: Rouen, Bayeux, and Falaise Day Trip from Caen
Follow in the footsteps of historic icons like William the Conqueror, Joan of Arc and Rollo on this full-day private tour of Normandy. Discover the dark secrets and major events of French history as you explore Rouen, Caen and Bayeux with an expert guide. Start with a visit to historic Rouen to view the magnificent Cathedral and see the spot where Joan of Arc was killed. After lunch (own expense), explore the port town of Caen, including William the Conquerors's castle and the Abbaye aux Hommes, then marvel over the world-famous Bayeux Tapestry.
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From
$493.46
per group
From
$493.46
per group
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff