Bayeux
There are two principal reasons to visit Bayeux - the famous tapestry, and the town itself:
Bayeaux tapestry
The Bayeux tapestry is without doubt the most famous tapestry in the world. It is a 'must-see' on a holiday in Normandy.
Although the origins of the tapestry are slightly unclear, it appears probable it was either commissioned by the half-brother of William the Conqueror, or his wife. It was also probably completed around 1077, and it seems likely it was made in England, although even that is not certain.
The tapestry, nonetheless, is a French National Treasure.
The tapestry relates the story of the conquest of England and King Harold by the Norman, William the Conqueror, in the Battle of Hastings, including the preparations for the battle and the battle itself.
The tapestry is about 80 metres long and 50 centimetres high and can be seen, not surprisingly, in the town of Bayeux.
Bayeux - the town
Bayeux itself is an attractive town with a reasonably well-preserved medieval centre, and a renowned cathedral, the Cathedrale Notre Dame, dating in part from 1077. The tapestry was originally displayed in the cathedral before being moved to its current home - the Centre Guillaume le Conquerant.
Nearby Bayeux also houses the largest British war cemetery in Normandy. The cemetery is very moving, immaculately kept and the graves are planted with a lovely mix of perennials and red roses.
Families of British soldiers buried here were offered the chance to write a message to be engraved on the headstone and the messages are very moving.
Across the road is the Memorial Museum of the Battle of Normandy (Musée Mémorial de la Bataille de Normandie). This museum recounts the action seen in Normandy from the 7 June to the 29 August 1944. (See separate article about a visit to the Normandy landing Beaches.)
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Visit Bayeux (Normandy, Calvados) travel, gites and hotels
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Places to visit near Bayeux, France
Explore places of interest within about 70 kilometres on a map at places near Bayeux.
Some places to visit within 30 km: 
12 km: Arromanches (Landing beach visitor centre) 23 km: Normandy landing beaches (Historical landmark)
See also Bayeux (version Francais)
