Our cruise ship had docked early in the morning at Caudebec-en-Caux. Once we had lunch on board after our visit to the Pays d’aude Region we had a free afternoon to explore Caudebec-en-Caux. It was a Saturday afternoon and most things were closed. However, we managed to find some very interesting things.
Caudebec-en-Caux during WW2 from bombing and a fire destroyed the village by almost 80%. A few homes next to the Notre Dame church are all that is left of the original buildings. King Henry IV declared “Notre Dame de Caudebec-en-Caux the most beautiful chapel in his kingdom. ” I will agree with him, it is stunning. Victor Hugo stated “it was like lace work in stone”
Many of the external sculptures of Notre Dame were destroyed in the religious wars of the 16th century and more from fires in 1940 and World War 2.
The Sainte-Gertrude river meanders through the town. It’s so pretty and relaxing. Flowers everywhere.
Sainte-Gertrude river meanders right through the village
So pretty the Sainte- Gertrude River
This prison was built-in the 14th century, embedded in the ramparts of the city. It is one of the last medieval prisons in France. The dungeon housed the prisoners in solitary confinement or those that would be given the death sentence. First floor were for the lighter sentences and the top floor for the guards.
The prison built-in the 14th century.
The prison built-in the 14th century.
The city was fortified at the end of the 14th century. There are remains of fortifications (the city was surrounded by ditches with walls with towers and fortified places).You can still see the base of the tower Fascines and the tower of Harfleur.
The tower or whats left of it of the walled city
One of the very few half timber homes that survived the fire during WW2
This house dates back to the 13th century and is the oldest building in the city. It is now a museum dedicated to the post-impressionist painting of Emile Bréchot and local history. It was closed when we were there. Its said to have been a temple which has given its name. Oh and if you were wondering, it has no association to the religious order of the Knights of Templar. Although reading about them I am intrigued and will find out more.
Templars House – one of the few houses to escape the devastation of the fire during WW2 One of the few stone houses in Normandy still standing.
Notre Dame is stunning and my photos do not do it justice. If you only visit Caudebec-en-Caux for the Church then it’s so worth it.
stunning stain glass windows
Statues inside the church.
16th Century Organ
close up of the amazing gothic architecture of Notre Dame
The Hotel du Bailli a manor house built towards the end of the 18th century.
Hotel du Bailli
The Musée de la Marine de Seine, in Caudebec-en-Caux explains the history and importance of the Seine River in the region for both fishing and local industry. We chose to not go in to the museum. It was nearly closing time so we headed to our ship for a cold drink and get ready for dinner.
The Museum of fishing and the local industry.
I am so pleased that we had a free afternoon and could discover what an amazing village Caudebec-en-Caux is. On doing my research I found many people found it too sleepy, quiet, nothing to do. Muriel and I spent hours wandering around this small village. As you turn every corner there was something new. These are just a few of the photos that I took that afternoon. The rest I will put them on Instagram.
Travel and Lifestyle with Bree 
So much more to see in France. Caudebec-en-Caux is beautiful. Have to put it on my list.
LikeLiked by 1 person
There is something around every corner in France.
LikeLike
I have a lot to learn and explore yet about France. We are traveling through this region in the next month so will put this on my list, thanks.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oh Im so pleased that you got to learn about it before getting there. Yes def on the list.
LikeLike
How wonderful photos. I love especially those Church photos -they are gorgeous.
Have a good day!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you x
LikeLike
France has so many beautiful and quaint villages. Caudebec-en-Caux looks pretty. And your photographs make it look more so 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
thank you for stopping by. Yes France certainly has many villages that are worth visiting.
LikeLike
Isn’t it tragic how many of these beautiful villages were virtually flattened — but also wonderful that architectural treasures like Notre Dame were preserved? Thank you for a fascinating vicarious tour through this gorgeous little city.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you for stopping by. Yes it is very sad what has happened to many of these stunning villages during the war.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love these towns with rivers or canals that run through them. Very pretty indeed. Xx
LikeLike
Oh me too…
LikeLiked by 1 person
This looks like an interesting town with a lot of personality and so much to do! I love being introduced to lesser known spots like this (at least I’ve never heard of it). I’m especially keen on visiting the prison, seems like it would be right in my wheelhouse. Very interesting history!
LikeLiked by 1 person
It certainly is an interesting town. Im so pleased I have introduced you to another amazing place to visit. Thank you for dropping by x
LikeLike
Wish i had been there with you
From the jealous sister
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes we wish you were there also
LikeLike
Looks like such a cute village ! And this church , OMG !
LikeLiked by 1 person
That it is x The church is amazing!
LikeLike
Isn’t it great how you can spend hours to find hidden gems in places where others may think is too boring?! Thanks for sharing information about Caudebec-en-Caux as I’ve never heard of it before. Looks like a charming place to visit!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you for stopping by x Yes unheard of unless on a cruise up the Seine as its a popular place to berth. Most cruises, then put you on a coach and take you away for the day. We were extremely lucky. Some of our cruise mates went to a full day at the landing in Normandy beaches so they missed out.
LikeLike
I love the quieter villages and towns of France – they are the best where people don’t affect your experience. With you all the way. Kx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oh Im the same.
LikeLike
Great post, love reading about new places! The architecture looks amazing!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much for stopping by xx Yes I love learning about new places too x
LikeLike
Looks beautiful
LikeLiked by 1 person