Summary
Historical Significance of Château de Falaise
The story of William the Conqueror begins at the Château de Falaise, located 35 kilometers (22 miles) south of Caen in Calvados, Normandy. Born in Falaise around 1027 or 1028, William, often called ‘William the Bastard,’ was the illegitimate son of Robert I, known as Robert the Magnificent. By the time of William’s birth, the Dukedom of Normandy, established in 911 by Rollo the Viking, was a dominating force in northern France.
William grew up in Falaise Castle, a prominent residence of the Dukes perched high on a hilltop or ‘falaise,’ which symbolized power and leadership. The castle remains a prominent landmark over the small town and has undergone imaginative restoration, offering visitors a glimpse into its storied past.
Falaise Castle boasts impressive structures, including the Talbot Tower constructed in 1207, the lower keep from around 1150, and the Great Square Keep built by Henry, William’s son, in 1123. This architectural marvel was modeled after the Tower of London, which William began constructing in 1067, marking it as an exemplary medieval fortress.
The castle has experienced both prosperity and destruction, enduring intermittent conflicts during the Hundred Years War (1337-1453) between the English and the French, as well as extensive damage during the bombings in August 1944 during the final battle of Normandy.
A visit to the castle offers more than just historical insights; an audio-visual tour engages visitors through sound and images that vividly recreate events from feasting to warfare. Consequently, one can appreciate the vibrant history that shaped this region.
Practical Information for Visitors
Chateau Guillaume-Le-Conquerant
Place Guillaume le Conquerant
14700 Falaise, Calvados, Normandy
Tel.: 00 33 (02) 31 41 61 44
www.chateau-guillaume-leconquerant.fr
A well-stocked shop is located within the castle.
Opening Times and Prices
From February to December (except December 25th and January 1st): daily 10am-6pm
In July and August: daily 10am-7pm
Guided tours (free) on weekends and holidays: English at 11:30am; French at 3:30pm
In July and August: Daily English at 11:30am and 3:30pm; French at 10am and 2pm.
Admission Fees:
Adults: 7.50 euros; Children (6-16 years): 3.50 euros
Family Pass (2 adults and children aged 6 to 16): 18 euros.
Where to Eat in Falaise
La Fine Fourchette
52 rue Georges Clemenceau
14700 Falaise, Normandy
Tel.: 00 33 (0)2 31 90 08 59
Enjoy a welcoming atmosphere at this family-run local restaurant, where excellent dishes, particularly seafood, are served. Their set menus start from 16 euros, alongside an enticing à la carte selection.
Directions to Falaise
- From Paris: 290 kilometers (180 miles) via the A13 (passing through Caen)
- From Caen: 35 kilometers (22 miles) south on the N158
- From Portsmouth to Ouistreham by ferry, then D154 to Caen, followed by N158 south to Falaise: 50 kilometers (31 miles).
