In repentance for marrying, cousins William the conqueror and Mathilda of Flanders ordered Abbaye aux Hommes built along with its neighbor, Abbaye aux Dames ("Ladies' Abbey"). The men's monastery was dedicated to St. Stephen. Each church is considered one of the most notable Romanesque buildings in Normandy. Built in Caen stone during the 11th century, both churches had the ribbed vault, used for the first time in France, added to them in about 1120. The current Hôtel de Ville, or town hall, of Caen is built onto the building’s South Transept. Use our Caen travel route planning website to arrange your visit to Abbaye aux Hommes and other attractions in Caen.
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Abbaye aux Hommes reviews
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The Men Abbey, along with the Saint Etienne Church within it is one of Caen most remarkable and important sites. It dates back to 11 century when it was built, along with the Women Abbey in other...
The Men Abbey, along with the Saint Etienne Church within it is one of Caen most remarkable and important sites. It dates back to 11 century when it was built, along with the Women Abbey in other... more »
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The Abbey is impressive from the outside but quite stark inside. There were only guided tours in French available at the time we were there so we read up about the abbey ourselves and of course...
The Abbey is impressive from the outside but quite stark inside. There were only guided tours in French available at the time we were there so we read up about the abbey ourselves and of course... more »
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A beautiful abbey and the tomb of William is worth seeing up close. An essential viewing for those with an interest in history, especially French, Norman, Viking or English.
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A beautiful place to visit. Plenty of wow factor and some humorous artwork in the garden to the front
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