Caen

We took the scenic route to Caen. Great views of the Norman countryside on the way. Won't be wearing this jacket again. The reflectors photograph weird.

This and the next 2 pictures were taken in Pont l'Eveque. Cute little town. Picture-worthy.



Had to get in a picture of Alex. Tired of only seeing pictures of myself.

Caen is the capital of Lower Normandy (Rouen is the capital of Upper Normandy). William, Duke of Normandy, ruled from Caen before he conquered England and became William the Conqueror.
I'm standing on one of the ramparts in William the Conqueror's fortress. Built in 1060. Behind me is the Church of St-Pierre.

The eastern gate of William's fortress. A rare sunny afternoon in Normandy.

The Eglise de la Trinite (Trinity Church) in front of the Abbaye aux Dames (Ladies' Abbey). The Abbey was founded by William the Conqueror's wife, Queen Matilda in 1063. Queen Matilda is buried in the church.

Abbaye aux Hommes (Men's Abbey) on the left, church of St-Etienne on the right. Both built by William the Conqueror from local Caen stones, which he also used to build Canterbury Cathedral, Westminster Abbey and the Tower of London. William the Conqueror was buried in this church, but his tomb was destroyed.