Falaise is a town in Calvados, in the Normandy region, 36 km south-east of Caen.
Crossed by the course of the Ante, a tributary of the Dives, its territory is located on the borders of the plain of Caen to the north, the Pays d'Auge to the north-east and Norman Switzerland.
The city developed around its castle erected in the tenth century on a rocky outcrop overlooking the river and on the site of Guibray, to the east, where a sanctuary has been established since the Merovingian era.
Falaise becomes the capital of the Duchy of Normandy at the beginning of the second millennium and the city's status is reinforced under the reign of William the Conqueror who was born there in 1027.
Once Normandy was attached to the kingdom of France in 1204, the city retained a rank of choice and until the 14th century, sessions of the Exchequer (whose missions are those of a court of justice and a court of accounts) continue to stick to them.
Gained by Henri IV during the Wars of Religion, the city was hard hit in 1944 during bombardments linked to the D-Day landings and when the Allies fought a German counter-offensive there in August (Battle of the Pocket of Falaise).
From this rich past, and despite industrial development, Falaise has retained an exceptional heritage. With around 8,500 inhabitants, it is a prime tourist destination, also offering a variety of cultural (museums) and sports leisure activities.
The castle of Falaise is logically the jewel of the heritage of the former capital of Normandy.
Originally built on the model of fortified mottes with enclosures, already very famous around the year 1000, the castle as it is visible today dates from the 12th and 13th centuries, according to the plans of Henry I, last son of William the Conqueror. There is an imposing keep serving as a residence and a high courtyard forming a square plan typical of English traditions. Restored in the 1980s, the site can be visited using digital tablets that allow you to find the interiors as they were in the Middle Ages.
Open every day. Price: 4 and 8.50 euros. Information on +33 2 31 41 61 44.
Before continuing to explore the city, it should be noted that elements of the fortifications and the remains of the medieval gates are still visible.
We then focus on religious heritage such as the Saint-Gervais church, whose construction began in 1066 under the leadership of William the Conqueror. A Romanesque style inspired by the Church of the Trinity of the Abbaye-aux-Dames in Caen (south wall of the nave, lantern tower, west facade, historiated capitals) and Gothic and then Renaissance alterations are combined.
The church of Saint-Laurent (11th century, Romanesque style at the level of the nave with its schist walls arranged in fishbones, of the facade and of the portal), which was the subject of donations from Queen Mathilde, wife of Guillaume, also worth a visit. We will also mention the Notre-Dame-de-Guibray church (11th century) in the center of the old parish of Guibray (integrated into the town during the Revolution), which is a fine example of a purely Norman Romanesque style. In front of the building, a trade fair in the Assumption was held for a long time, established in the 11th century. The church also houses an organ from Parizot (18th century). Finally, this overview of the religious heritage includes the Church of the Trinity erected in the 13th century after a first building was destroyed during the siege of Philippe Auguste in 1204, before Falaise joined France. Rebuilt again after the Hundred Years War, devoid of a steeple, the church is famous for the gargoyles and sculpted figures visible on the lower right side of the nave.
The Place Guillaume-le-Conquérant with the statue of the famous child of the city, the castle of Fresnaye (17th century), beautiful mansions of the 18th century (of Saint-Léonard and des Rives), in particular, will still mark a walk in the center of town.
On the cultural side, visitors have the choice between several museums with very varied themes. The André-Lemaître museum presents some 90 paintings by this painter born in Falaise (1909-1995) famous for his paintings of still lifes, his Norman landscapes and who was influenced by Cézanne. Open every day from April to September and in December, weekends and public holidays and during school holidays in October, November and January to March. Information on +33 2 31 90 02 43.
In another register, the "Automate Avenue" museum presents the reconstruction of Parisian windows animated by automata, dating from the years 1920 to 1950. About 300 automata are on display. Open daily from April to September and in December, weekends and public holidays the rest of the year. Entrance: 6 and 8 euros. Information on +33 2 31 90 02 43.
Finally, the Memorial to Civilians in War was inaugurated in 2016. It is dedicated to the life and even the survival of civilians during World War II. The museum offers 1000 m² of exhibition, testimonies of survivors, presents documents and objects coming from the funds of the Memorial of Caen and the inhabitants of Falaise and its region. Digital tablets allow you to virtually immerse yourself in this era. Admission: 6.50 and 7.50 euros. Information on +33 2 31 06 06 45.
Finally, it should be mentioned that the Forum room hosts various shows and conferences throughout the year (program on +33 2 31 90 89 60) and that the Entr'Acte associative cinema is open to all audiences (info at +33 2 31 90 31 17).
For sports visitors and tourists, the facilities available are legion: indoor and outdoor tennis courts (book a court by joining the local club on +33 6 08 16 30 36), city stadiums (La Fontaine Couverte and Pavane sites), skate-park, vitality course (Domaine de la Fresnaye, Espace Didier Bianco)… All information on +33 2 31 41 61 53.
In addition, the Forméo aquatic center has sports pools, fun equipment (5 pentagliss lanes, counter-current river, giant 75 m slide) and a space dedicated to well-being (spas, sauna, etc.). Information on +33 2 31 41 69 00.
Finally, for hiking enthusiasts, the potential of the city and its surroundings (hedged landscapes) is just as interesting. A special mention for Mount Myrrha, a walking site including a climbing course and from which one enjoys a panoramic view of the city and its castle. Maps and information on +33 2 31 90 17 26.
The second half of June, funfair.
The second weekend of August, medieval festivals including costumed parades and musical and fun entertainment.
Every Saturday morning, the weekly market in and around the listed halls allows you to appreciate the rich Norman terroir.
Visite Guidée de l'Exposition Temporaire "Renaître des Ruines : les Villes au Coeur de la Guerre" au Mémorial de Falaise
- From 25 july to 29 august 2024
- 12 Place Guillaume le Conquérant, Mémorial de Falaise
- A Falaise Memorial guide will take you through the temporary exhibition "Rising from the Ruins : Towns in the Heart of War". Around the various panels and showcases, enjoy fascinating explanations to complete your visit. - Practical information - - Tuesdays and Thursdays, from July 9 to August 29 - - At 4.30pm (duration : 1h) - - No reservation required - - Guided tour included in museum admission price - - Information on 02 31 20 02 97
Animation "Les Objets ont une Histoire" au Mémorial de Falaise
- From 25 july to 29 august 2024
- 12 Place Guillaume le Conquérant, Mémorial de Falaise
- During your visit to the Falaise Memorial, travel back in time with everyday objects from the past. Ration coupons, wooden-soled shoes and gas masks all have their own anecdotes to tell ! A lively way to better understand the history and living conditions of the French during the war. - Practical information - - Every Wednesday and Thursday, from July 10 to August 29 - - 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. (duration : 1 hour) - - Open to all - - No reservation required - - Included in the price of admission to the museum - - Information on 02 31 20 02 97 or info@memorial-falaise.fr
Grande Randonnée Pédestre "Exode des Civils été 44"
- On 28 july 2024
- 12 Place Guillaume le Conquérant, Mémorial de Falaise
- Between Falaise and Chambois, relive, in two stages, the exodus of many civilians at the pace of two Norman Cobs. - Program : - - 8:30 am : Participants gather in front of the Falaise Memorial, with a musical interlude by Swanny Denis. - - 9.15am : Group photo. - - 9:30 am : Departure, in groups and in column, behind a horse-drawn sheaf cart. Walk to Saint-Pierre-du-Bû (8 km) via the Gervais au Prey farm where seven civilians, refugees from the Falaise hospital, were killed. - - 1pm : Glass of friendship and picnic (not provided) at the Saint-Pierre-du-Bû village hall. Musical interlude and draw for hikers eligible for transfer by military vehicle. - - 2.15pm : Board the coaches for departure to Tournai-sur-Dive. - - 3pm : Arrival in Tournai. Musical interlude. - - 3:30pm : Walk to Chambois (8 km) via the Moissy ford and death row. - - Around 6pm : Arrival at Chambois. Brief presentation of the crossroads of Victory and the closing of the Falaise-Chambois pocket. Musical interlude and pot de l'amitié. - - 7pm : Return by coach to Falaise. - Practical information : - - Capacity limited to 150 people (all ages) - - Single ticket price : 10 ? per person - - Information and registration at Falaise - Suisse Normande Tourist Office : 02 31 90 17 26
Quartiers Libres
- On 31 july 2024
- City Stade de la Fontaine Couverte, Rue des Léopards
- Every Wednesday in June and July, you'll find a wide range of free events open to all, including sports activities, introductory courses, an area for toddlers, shows, workshops and crafts. - Activities will take place in two successive locations : - Wednesday June 5, City Stade rue des Léopards (Fontaine Couverte) *, 3 pm ? 18h - Wednesday June 12, City Stade rue Maurice Nicolas (Pavane), 3 ? 18h - Wednesday June 19, City Stade rue des Léopards (Fontaine Couverte) *, 3pm ? 18h - Wednesday June 26, City Stade rue Maurice Nicolas (Pavane), 3 ? 18h - Wednesday, July 3, Centre Socioculturel**, 3 pm ? 20h30 - Wednesday, July 10, City Stade rue Maurice Nicolas (Pavane), 3 ? 18h - Wednesday, July 17, City Stade rue des Léopards (Fontaine Couverte) *, 15h? 18h - Wednesday, July 24, City Stade rue Maurice Nicolas (Pavane), 15h? 18h - Wednesday July 31, City Stade rue des Léopards (Fontaine Couverte) *, 3 pm ? 18h - *In case of bad weather, activities will take place at the Salle Polyvalente de la Fontaine Couverte - ** In case of bad weather, activities will take place at the Forum
Les Médiévales de Falaise
- From 10 to 11 august 2024
- Château Guillaume le Conquérant
- For a weekend, take a leap into the past and immerse yourself in the Middle Ages ! - Two days of immersion in the heart of medieval life. - The Falaise Medieval Festival, by going beyond the castle ramparts to take over the surrounding area, offers the opportunity to discover an exceptional monument located in the heart of a remarkable preserved area. In total, it is a playground of more than five hectares which is proposed to the public. - For this 2023 edition, the program will be unveiled in the coming weeks. - As every year, the castle will host camps in which the public can enjoy various themes and activities. - And finally, the Place Guillaume le Conquérant and the city center will host the numerous stalls of the traditional market. Craftsmen and creators, all passionate about the world of the Middle Ages, will set up shop to present their products and know-how throughout the weekend.
80ème Anniversaire de la Libération de Falaise : Soirée de Témoignages
- On 16 august 2024
- 9 Rue Rollon, Église Sainte-Trinité
- Join us for an exceptional evening as witnesses to the Liberation and Reconstruction of Falaise share their memories. Rendezvous on Friday August 16 at 6pm at the Eglise Sainte-Trinité in Falaise. - Have you been a direct or indirect witness to the Liberation and Reconstruction of Falaise, and would you like to share your memories ? Are you interested in these stories that contribute to the telling of History ? To offer your testimony, please contact the Falaise Tourism Department on 06 58 32 30 11.
80ème Anniversaire de la Libération de Falaise : Concert des D-Day Ladies
- On 17 august 2024
- Château de la Fresnaye, Rue Georges Clemenceau
- The three Ladies, accompanied by accomplished jazz musicians, perform a repertoire built around the best hits of the legendary Andrews Sisters Trio. This interactive show with its joyful, dynamic spirit creates a real bond between the artists and the audience, in French and English, and pays tribute to the veterans of the Second World War.
80ème Anniversaire de la Libération de Falaise : Campements Civils et Militaires
- From 17 to 18 august 2024
- Château de la Fresnaye, Rue Georges Clemenceau
- Come and meet these history buffs and talk to them about the lives of soldiers and civilians during the Second World War. All day long, they will be presenting their camp, their uniforms, their equipment and their vehicles, some of them horse-drawn. - In partnership with the associations Véhicules de la Bataille de Normandie and Histoire vivante de Cavalerie allemande.
80ème Anniversaire de la Libération de Falaise : Concert du Groupe O.J.O
- On 17 august 2024
- Château de la Fresnaye, Rue Georges Clemenceau
- After the commemoration of the veterans, the group O.J.O will offer a festive and popular moment in the Fresnaye park. Repertoire from the 40s to today !
80ème Anniversaire de la Libération de Falaise : Cérémonie Patriotique
- On 17 august 2024
- Place Guillaume le Conquérant
- From 4 pm : - - Cimetière Trinité for the ceremony of remembrance at the stele of civilian victims of the 1944 bombings - - Canadian monument on Boulevard de la Libération, for the ceremony following Canadian protocol - - Plaque for civilian victims, on the Falaise Memorial esplanade - Place Guillaume-le-Conquérant - for the tribute to civilian victims
