Like the rest of France, Normandy has a rich religious architectural heritage.
We present below the 7 cathedrals of Normandy as well as our selection of the most beautiful churches and chapels in Normandy, to help you discover the variety of religious buildings.
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Religious heritage in Normandy
Normandy has a long and rich history.
Cathedrals and other religious buildings have played a central role in this history.
Most of the cathedrals date back to the time when Normandy was almost a separate country. But many others date from different periods, giving you a very rich experience.
The 7 cathedrals are listed below.
However, for churches and chapels, we’ve only selected our favourites, as there are too many to count!
They are among the most beautiful places to visit in Normandy.
The 7 Cathedrals of Normandy
Today, there are 7 cathedrals still standing in Normandy (but only 6 dioceses since the last reorganization).
They are all very different and well worth a visit.
It’s always mind-boggling to imagine how they were able to build and adorn these giants.
#1 Rouen Cathedral
- A brief history
The cathedral was built over 800 years, starting in the 12th century. It features elements ranging from early Gothic to Renaissance and late Flamboyant styles.
Several fires have destroyed parts of the cathedral over the years. But it has always been rebuilt and transformed.
During the Revolution, some of the furniture was sold or melted down, but it was transformed into the Temple of Reason and therefore protected.
During the Second World War, it was hit twice. But the sculptures and stained-glass windows had been protected. It reopened in 1956. - Read more
- Highlights
Rouen is the most impressive of all cathedrals. But it’s also the most difficult to photograph because of its size (width and height).
The western front with its portals is absolutely splendid, with numerous sculptures.
What’s most surprising are the 3 towers in different styles. Only one has a spire (reaching 151m).
Inside, you’ll find an impressive nave, the tomb of Richard the Lionheart and preserved 13th-century stained glass windows. Did you know that the embalmed heart of Richard the Lionheart was first sent to Rouen Cathedral before being stored in the city’s Museum of Antiquities? - Location
In the center of Rouen
See the best rated accommodations in Rouen
#2 Coutances Cathedral
- A brief history
The current Gothic cathedral, built in the 13th century.
Compared with other cathedrals, this one has remained pretty much as it was when it was built. It was fortunate not to suffer too much damage during the Wars of Religion, the Revolution and the Second World War.
- Highlights
The cathedral is in classic Gothic style, with long vertical lines. The twin towers are 80 m high.
Admire the proportion and symmetry.
Inside, it’s one of my favorite naves. The sculpted columns and upper levels are magnificent.
And you can still see 13th-century stained glass windows and medieval floor tiles. - Location
In the center of Coutances. It dominates the city and can be seen from afar (some say from Jersey Island).
See the best rated accommodations in Coutances
#3 Bayeux Cathedral
- A brief history
It is known as Notre-Dame de Bayeux. Before being housed in the museum, it was here that the famous Bayeux tapestry was exhibited.
The present cathedral was consecrated in the 11th century in the presence of William, King of England and Duke of Normandy.
It was damaged in the 12th century and rebuilt in Gothic style. - Read more
- Highlights
Enjoy walking around the cathedral and seeing the different layers of architecture.
Inside, you can admire the detailed sculptures around the nave.
But the main attraction is the crypt and its frescoes. - Location
In the center of Bayeux.
See the best rated accommodations in Bayeux
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- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a car that is comfortable enough (distances can be long) but compact (some parking lots and villages are narrow).
- Remember to take outcomprehensive insurance (some roads are winding and narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
#4 Évreux Cathedral
- A brief history
It is known as Notre-Dame d’Evreux. It was built in the 10th century and the arcades are still in the Romanesque style.
However, most of the original building was destroyed by fire in the 12th century.
The cathedral features elements from different periods, such as the west facade, which dates back to the 16th century.
Unfortunately, most of the stained glass windows were destroyed during the Second World War. They were restored in 1953.
Its arrow reaches 75m.
- Highlights
For this cathedral, I prefer the side views to the façade. The bows and arrows are splendid.
Inside, don’t miss the Gothic choir with its colorful windows.
Another point of interest is the location of the Iton River right in front of the cathedral. - Location
In the center of Evreux.
See the top-rated accommodations in Evreux.
#5 Sées Cathedral
- A brief history
This is one of Normandy’s lesser-known cathedrals.
It was built in the 13th and 14th centuries. It was consecrated in 1310.
It has suffered a great deal throughout history, and was not built on solid foundations. It is therefore constantly being restored and consolidated. - Highlights
The interior dimensions are beautifully proportioned, in my opinion.
And the stained-glass rosettes are magnificent. - Location
In the heart of the town of Sées.
See the best rated accommodations in Sées.
#6 Lisieux Cathedral
- A brief history
The current building was constructed in the 12th and 13th centuries. And you can see the rather severe architecture of the early Gothic style. The south tower dates from the 16th century, with a 17th-century spire.
The town was badly damaged during the Second World War, but the cathedral has been preserved. - Highlights
The cathedral is often overlooked, as Lisieux is home to an impressive modern basilica (more on this below). However, the contrast between the 2 buildings is interesting to look at. And that’s where Thérèse Martin went to mass. The basilica is dedicated to her.
It houses the tomb of Bishop Cauchon, who judged Joan of Arc. - Location
In the center of Lisieux.
See the best rated accommodations in Lisieux
#7 Le Havre Cathedral
- First of all, let me warn you, this cathedral doesn’t look like a cathedral. It’s not huge like the others. But don’t be disappointed, Le Havre is also home to one of Normandy’s most surprising churches (see next section).
- A brief history
The building dates back to the 16th and 17th centuries (since the town was founded in 1517). It was consecrated as a cathedral in 1974.
It’s quite impressive that it’s still standing, as most of the city was destroyed during the Second World War. It was also damaged, but has now been restored to its original form. Today, it’s one of the city’s oldest buildings. - Read more
- Highlights
Enjoy the completely different style of this cathedral. It features a blend of Baroque, Gothic and Renaissance styles – particularly the Renaissance façade, whose Ionic columns contrast with the large square tower.
Inside, feel the years of history and everything she’s seen. - Location
Just a few minutes’ walk from the town hall. In the midst of Le Havre‘s Unesco-listed architecture.
See the top-rated accommodations in Le Havre.
Map of Normandy Cathedrals
Below is a map to help you locate them in the region:
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10 most beautiful churches in Normandy
Now let’s take a look at the churches. Almost every village, town and city has at least one church. Many have several.
I won’t list them all here.
The list below includes churches that have something special, something different that, in my opinion, makes them fascinating to visit. This is a personal selection.
#1 Église Saint-Joseph in Le Havre
- A brief history
Built between 1951 and 1957, the interior was not completed until 1964. Architect Auguste Perret never saw it built.
Find out more. - Highlights
It has a unique square structure with Auguste Perret’s characteristic style – the base is square, and the tower is 107m high and hollow in the middle. It stands on its corners!
Step inside when the sun is shining – the colors of the stained glass are reflected everywhere! - Location
In the center of Le Havre. Near the waterfront
See our article on the best things to do in Le Havre.
See the best-rated accommodations in Le Havre
#2 Église Sainte Catherine in Honfleur
- A brief history
Built in the second half of the 15th century.
Find out more. - Highlights
It’s so amazing that this church is still standing. It is built almost entirely of wood, which is very rare in France.
Take time to look at the exterior with the roof and sides partially covered with chestnut shingles. Note also the shape of the bell tower, separated from the church (to protect parishioners in the event of fire).
Then go inside. What do you notice?
It looks like an upside-down boat. This is because the first nave was built using naval techniques. - Location
Right next to Honfleur harbor – see our article with the best things to do in Honfleur.
See the top-rated accommodations in Honfleur or for our reviews, our article on Where to sleep in Honfleur.
#3 Old St. Peter’s Church Stephen in Caen
- A brief history
Probably founded in the 10th century. It was heavily damaged several times in the course of history, as it was located along the city walls. - Highlights
It’s not the most original in terms of structure. But the half-destroyed, half-standing situation really caught my attention.
We find the balance very beautiful, and I couldn’t help admiring it, even though it’s right next to the magnificent Abbaye-aux-Hommes.
That’s why we’ve decided to include it here. - Location
In the center of Caen, Calvados department.
See the top-rated accommodations in Caen.
#4 Église Saint-Martin in Yport
- A brief history
From the 19th century - Highlights
Yport is one of our favorite villages in Normandy. It’s not the most famous, but we love its atmosphere.
This is partly due to the typical architecture of the houses and the church with its two-tone stone walls.
What’s more, the church tower with its two mini-towers is absolutely charming. - Location
In the village of Yport, along the Alabaster coast.
See the top-rated accommodations in Yport.
#5 Saint-Julien church in Domfront
- A brief history
Built in 1924 in neo-Byzantine style. - Highlights
This church of St. Julien has a very unique style – it was built in reinforced concrete with a surprising shape on a square plan.
And don’t miss the Byzantine-style mosaics inside. - Location
In the old center of Domfront en Poiraie
See the best rated accommodations in Domfront
#6 Église Saint-Pierre la Vieille
- A brief history
Originally built in the 15th century and subsequently restored. - Highlights
We’ve always enjoyed the church towers of western Normandy. They’re basic but quite elegant, we think.
But this church was more surprising, with 5 large windows on each side.
As we walked towards it, we were fascinated by the structure. - Location
In the village of Saint-Pierre la Vieille, in Suisse Normande
See the best rated accommodations in Clécy.
#7 Église Saint-Germain in Argentan
- A brief history
Built in the 15th century and completed in the 18th.
Originally built in the flamboyant Gothic style (hence the flame motifs), the building was completed in the Renaissance style. - Highlights
This church is a little more classical than the others listed. But the surprising thing is that it looks like a cathedral, which is why I included it.
Enjoy the magnificent 15th-century porch, lantern tower and bell tower. The proportions seem almost perfect. - Location
In the town of Argentan, Orne department.
See the top-rated accommodations in Argentan.
#8 Saint-Nicolas Church in Barfleur
- A brief history
The current church was built between the 17th and 18th centuries (it has already been destroyed twice). - Highlights
I was surprised by this church. It has a very unique architecture, and its seaside location in the charming village of Barfleur contributes to this.
It features a variety of roof shapes: classic triangular, square tower, domed, angular… There’s no boring angle to look at.
But what I find most surprising is the square tower. It makes the church look like a small castle. - Location
In the village of Barfleur.
See the best-rated accommodations in the region
#9 Church of Saint-Cénéri-le-Gérei
- A brief history
The current church is in Roman style. It was built in 1089 by the Giroie family on the site of the wooden church built by Saint-Cénéri (destroyed in 903 by the Normans).
The bell tower was added in the 12th century.
Modifications were made in the 14th and 19th centuries, notably to the windows. - Highlights
The church is famous for its magnificent murals, some of which probably date back to the 12th century, but most of which date from the 16th to the 20th century.
The oldest had been plastered over in 1650 and were rediscovered in 1828.
The vault is particularly interesting in my opinion. It has also been plastered over. But in 1980, it was restored and 40 angel musicians were found inside. - Location
In the village of Saint-Cénéri-le-Gérei – read more in this article
See the best rated accommodations in Alençon
#10 Église Saint-Gervais Saint-Protais in Gisors
- A brief history
Built between 1494 and 1657. - Highlights
Beautiful stained glass windows – old and new
The organ has been used by famous organists such as Louis Couperin.
The many sculptures on the columns. - Location
In the town of Gisors, not far from the castle.
See the best rated accommodations in Gisors.
6 most beautiful chapels in Normandy
Now let’s go a little smaller.
Most of the chapels are fairly rudimentary, rectangular in shape and sparsely decorated. Despite this, some of them have inspired painters (such as the chapel not far from the church of Saint-Cénéri-le-Gérei) because of their location.
However, there are a few lovely chapels that we think you shouldn’t miss in Normandy.
#1 Chapelle Notre-Dame du bon port in Saint-Valéry-en-Caux
- A brief history
This one is fairly recent. The former chapel was destroyed during the Second World War. - Highlights
The trapezoid shape.
The highlights of the chapel are the stained glass windows that cover a large part of the walls.
Stepping inside is fascinating, especially on a sunny day. - Location
In the town of Saint-Valery-en-Caux, on the Alabaster coast.
See the top-rated accommodations in Saint-Valéry en Caux.
#2 Chapelle Notre Dame de la Garde in Étretat
- A brief history
This chapel is often the one people have in mind when they say Étretat church.
It was first built around 1855 and is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin. However, it was destroyed in 1942 by the Germans and a new one was rebuilt and inaugurated in 1950 (in a very different style). - Highlights
It is considered a chapel for sailors, protecting them from the cliffs. Note the fish-shaped gargoyles.
But what really makes it special are its locations overlooking the cliffs of Étretat. - Location
Atop the cliffs north of the town of Étretat (no access by car).
See top rated accommodations in Étretat
#3 Chapelle Notre dame de Grâce in Honfleur
- A brief history
Built in the 17th century, it is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. - Highlights
This chapel is richly decorated with paintings and models of ships offered as ex-voto by sailors.
Note the bells just outside the bell tower.
The nearby belvedere offers a beautiful view of the estuary. - Location
Above the town of Honfleur, on the “Plateau de Grâce”, hidden in the trees.
See the best rated accommodations in Honfleur
#4 Chapelle Saint-Adrien in Belbeuf
- A brief history
The current chapel was built in the 18th century. However, a chapel was established in the grotto from the 16th century onwards. - Highlights
It is partly troglodytic and features half-timbered walls and a thatched roof !!!!!
Admire it from the riverside parking lot.
Very limited access. - Location
Village of Belbeuf, just south of Rouen.
See the top-rated accommodations in Rouen.
#5 Chapel / Hermitage Saint Gerbold
- A brief history
Built in the 15th century. The chapel later became a hermitage (circa 1620). - Highlights
Just look at it. The proportions seem to defy gravity! It’s so charming. - Location
Not far from Château de Gratot, Manche department (western Normandy)
#6 Chapelle Chêne d’Allouville
- Highlights
A small chapel built inside and around an old tree (scientific since its planting in the 9th century). - Location
In the town of Allouville
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4 most beautiful Normandy basilicas
And now we’re back to the big places, but with newer buildings.
Let’s take a look at some of Normandy’s basilicas.
#1 Basilique de Lisieux
- A brief history
From an early age, Thérèse Martin was fascinated by religious life. She joined the Carmelite convent at the age of 15. In 1925, she was named Saint Theresa of the Infant Jesus, for her pious life and writings on faith. In 1997, Pope John Paul II declared her the 33rd Doctor of the Catholic Church (the only woman to hold this title at the time).
The foundation stone for the Basilica/Sanctuary was laid in 1929. - Highlights
It is the second most important pilgrimage site in France.
It’s quite an impressive building, with a beautiful view over Lisieux.
There’s plenty to see inside too, with mosaics and marble. - Location
Overlooking the town of Lisieux.
See the best rated accommodations in Lisieux
#2 Basilique de Montligeon
- A brief history
Gothic Revival building built between 1894 and 1911. - Highlights
Pilgrimage site.
It is famous for its stained glass windows. - Location
In the small town of La Chapelle-Montligeon, in the Perche countryside.
See the best rated accommodations around Mortagne-au-Perche
#3 Basilique Notre-Dame de Bonsecours
- A brief history
Neo-Gothic basilica dating from the 19th century. - Highlights
Appreciate the consistent style of the entire building, inspired by 13th-century elements: bell tower, sculpture gallery, rosettes, flying buttresses… - Location
Just south of Rouen, overlooking the city
See the best rated accommodations in Rouen
#4 Basilique de Douvres-la-Délivrande
- A brief history
The site has been a place of pilgrimage for a very long time (perhaps since Gallo-Roman times). This is one of the oldest pilgrimages in Normandy.
Numerous buildings have been erected here. The present-day basilica dates from the 19th century. The architect chose the Norman Gothic Revival style. - Highlights
The town is also known for having been the site of a major German air detection radar installation during the Second World War.
And for the big day, the basilica was a clear directional landmark. It was the only church with two towers in the region. It was therefore used to separate the Juno and Sword sectors. - Location
In the small town of Douvres-la-Délivrande
See the best rated accommodations near Douvres-la-Délivrande
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Normandy’s most beautiful abbeys
Normandy is also full of magnificent abbeys.
Many of them have been destroyed or partially destroyed, but you can still imagine how grandiose they were.
And at the height of their history, they were powerful and often the cultural centers of the region.
Some of our favorites are:
- Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey
- Jumièges Abbey
- Hambye Abbey
- Saint-Goerges-de-Boscherville Abbey
- Lucerne Abbey
- …
You’ll find them all in our article on the 10 most beautiful abbeys to visit in Normandy.
Other architectural wonders of Normandy
Normandy has much more to offer for your next vacation!
So many architectural wonders to appreciate… You will find below my articles to help you choose your visits:
- The most beautiful villages in Normandy
- Normandy’s most beautiful castles
- The most beautiful towns in Normandy
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Normandy
Inspiration destinations
- Deciding where to go in Normandy – the best destinations
- Our weekend ideas: best-of, romantic, unusual, seaside, luxury, family
- 16 seaside hotels in Normandy
- The most beautiful charming hotels in Normandy
Best of
Practice
- Where to stay in Normandy – best places and hotels
- See our tips for renting a car at CDG airport, Orly airport, Beauvais airport, Caen, Rouen, Bayeux…
