Like the rest of France, Normandy has a rich religious heritage in terms of architecture.
We present below the 7 cathedrals of Normandy as well as our selection of the most beautiful churches and chapels of Normandy to make you discover the variety of the religious buildings.
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 from the time when Normandy was almost a separate country. But many others date from different periods, which gives you a very rich experience.
You will find below the 7 cathedrals.
However, for the churches and chapels, we have selected only our favorites, because there are too many to count!
They are among the most beautiful places to visit in Normandy.
The 7 Cathedrals in Normandy
Today, there are 7 cathedrals still standing in Normandy (but only 6 dioceses since the last reorganization).
They are all very different and worth a visit.
It’s always mind-boggling to imagine how they were able to build and adorn these giants.
#1 Cathedral of Rouen
- Brief history
The cathedral was built over 800 years, starting in the 12th century. It has elements ranging from early Gothic to Renaissance and late Flamboyant.
Several fires have destroyed part of the cathedral over the years. But it has always been rebuilt and transformed.
During the revolution, part of the furniture was sold or melted down, but it was transformed into the Temple of Reason and was 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 - Strong points
Rouen is the most impressive cathedral of all. But also, the most difficult to photograph because of its size (width and height).
The western front with the portals is absolutely splendid with many sculptures.
What is most surprising are the 3 different style towers. Only one has a spire (which reaches 151m).
Inside, there is an impressive nave, the tomb with the heart of Richard the Lionheart and preserved 13th century stained glass windows. - Location
In the center of the city of Rouen
See the best rated accommodations in Rouen
#2 Cathedral of Coutances
- Brief history
The current gothic cathedral built in the 13th century.
Compared to other cathedrals, this one has remained fairly similar to what it was when it was built. It was lucky and was not too badly damaged during the religious wars, the revolution and the Second World War. - Strong points
The cathedral is in classical gothic style with long vertical lines. The twin towers are 80 m high.
Admire the proportion and symmetry.
Inside, this is one of my favorite naves. The carved columns and the upper levels are magnificent.
And you can still see stained glass windows from the 13th century as well as floor tiles from the medieval period. - Location
In the center of Coutances. It dominates the city and can be seen from far away (some say even from the island of Jersey).
See the best rated accommodations in Coutances
#3 Bayeux Cathedral
- Brief history
It is known as Notre-Dame de Bayeux. Before being in the museum, it is there that the famous Bayeux tapestry was exposed.
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 was rebuilt in Gothic style. - Strong points
Enjoy walking around the cathedral and seeing the different layers of architecture.
Inside, you can admire the details of the sculptures around the nave.
But the main attraction is the crypt and its frescoes. - Location
In the center of the city of Bayeux.
See the best rated accommodations in Bayeux
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING A CAR IN Normandy
- 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).
- Think of thecomplete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
#4 Cathedral of Evreux
- Brief history
It is known as Notre-Dame d’Evreux. It was built in the 10th century and the arcades are still in Romanesque style.
However, most of this original building was destroyed by fire in the 12th century.
This cathedral has elements from different periods, for example the west facade, which is mostly from 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. - Strong points
For this cathedral, I prefer the side views to the façade. The bows and arrows are splendid.
Inside, don’t miss the gothic choir and all its colorful windows.
The other interest is the location of the Iton River right in front of the cathedral. - Location
In the center of the city of Evreux.
See the best rated accommodations in Evreux.
#5 Sées Cathedral
- Brief history
It is one of the least known cathedrals in Normandy.
It was built in the 13th and 14th centuries. It was consecrated in 1310.
It has suffered a lot in the course of history, and it was not built on solid foundations. It is therefore constantly restored and consolidated. - Strong points
The interior dimensions are beautifully proportioned, in my opinion.
And the stained glass roses are magnificent. - Location
In the heart of the city of Sées.
See the best rated accommodations in Sées.
#6 Cathedral of Lisieux
- Brief history
The present building was built 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 city was heavily damaged during World War II, but the cathedral was preserved. - Strong points
The cathedral is often forgotten, because Lisieux is home to an impressive modern basilica (more information below). However, the contrast between the 2 buildings is interesting to look at. And that’s where Therese Martin went to mass. It is to her that the basilica is dedicated.
It houses the tomb of Bishop Cauchon, who tried Joan of Arc. - Location
In the center of the city of Lisieux.
See the best rated accommodations in Lisieux
#7 Cathedral of Le Havre
- First of all, let me warn you, this cathedral does not look like a cathedral. It is not huge like the others. But don’t be disappointed, Le Havre is also home to one of the most surprising churches in Normandy (see next section).
- Brief history
The building dates from the 16th and 17th centuries (since the city was founded in 1517). It was consecrated as a cathedral in 1974.
It is quite impressive that it is still standing, as most of the city was destroyed during World War II. It was also damaged, but it has been restored to its original form. It is now one of the oldest buildings in the city. - Strong points
Enjoy the completely different style of this cathedral. It has a mixture of Baroque, Gothic and Renaissance styles – especially the Renaissance facade whose Ionic columns contrast with the large square tower.
Inside, feel the years of history and all that she has seen. - Location
A few minutes walk from the town hall. In the middle of the architecture of Le Havre, classified in the Unesco.
See the best rated accommodations in Le Havre.
Map of the 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 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 Saint Joseph’s Church in Le Havre
- Brief history
Built between 1951 and 1957, the interior was not completed until 1964. Thus, the architect Auguste Perret never saw it built. - Strong points
It has a unique square structure with the characteristic style of Auguste Perret – The base is square, and the tower is 107m high and hollow in the middle. It stands on its corners!
Come 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 Saint Catherine Church in Honfleur
- Brief history
Built in the second half of the 15th century. - Strong points
It is so amazing that this church is still standing. It is almost entirely built 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. Notice also the shape of the bell tower, separated from the church (to protect the parishioners in case of fire).
Then go inside. What do you notice?
It looks like an upside down boat. It 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 best 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
- Brief history
Probably founded in the 10th century. It has been heavily damaged several times throughout history, as it was located along the city walls. - Strong points
It is 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 but admire it, even though it is next to the magnificent Abbaye-aux-Hommes.
That’s why we decided to include it here. - Location
In the center of the city of Caen, department of Calvados.
See the best rated accommodations in Caen.
#4 Saint-Martin Church in Yport
- Brief history
From the 19th century - Strong points
Yport is one of our favorite villages in Normandy. It’s not the most famous, but we like its atmosphere.
This is partly due to the typical architecture of the houses and the church with its two-colored stone walls.
In addition, the church tower with its two mini-towers is absolutely charming. - Location
In the village of Yport, along the Alabaster coast.
See the best rated accommodations in Yport.
#5 Saint-Julien Church in Domfront
- Brief history
Erected in 1924 in a neo-Byzantine style. - Strong points
This church of St. Julian has a very unique style – it was built in reinforced concrete with a surprising shape on a square plan.
And do not miss the mosaics inside (Byzantine style). - Location
In the old center of Domfront en Poiraie
See the best rated accommodations in Domfront
#6 Church of St. Peter the Elder
- Brief history
Originally built in the 15th century and later restored. - Strong points
We have always enjoyed the church towers of western Normandy. They are basic but quite elegant, we think.
But this church was more surprising with its 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 Saint-Germain Church in Argentan
- Brief history
Built in the 15th century and completed in the 18th century.
Originally built in a flamboyant gothic style (hence the flame-shaped motifs), the building was completed in a Renaissance style. - Strong points
This church is a bit more classical than the others listed. But the amazing thing is that it looks like a cathedral, which is why I included it.
Enjoy the beautiful 15th century porch, the lantern tower and the magnificent bell tower. The proportions seem almost perfect. - Location
In the city of Argentan, department of Orne.
See the best rated accommodations in Argentan.
#8 Saint-Nicolas Church in Barfleur
- Brief history
The present church was built between the 17th and 18th centuries (it has already been destroyed twice). - Strong points
I was surprised by this church. It has a very unique architecture, and its location by the sea in the charming village of Barfleur contributes to this.
It has a variety of roof shapes: classic triangular, square tower, dome, angular… There is no boring angle to look at.
But what I find most surprising is the square tower. Thanks to it, the church looks 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
- Brief history
The present church has a Roman style. It was built in 1089 by the Giroie family on the site of the wooden church built by Saint Ceneri (destroyed in 903 by the Normans).
The bell tower was added during the 12th century.
Modifications took place in the 14th and 19th centuries, especially in the windows. - Strong points
The church is famous for its beautiful murals, some of which probably date back to the 12th century, but most are from the 16th to the 20th century.
The oldest ones had been covered with plaster in 1650 and were rediscovered in 1828.
The vault is particularly interesting in my opinion. It was also covered with plaster. But in 1980, it was restored and 40 angel musicians were found there. - Location
In the village of Saint-Cénéri-le-Gérei – read more in this article
See the best rated accommodations in Alençon
#10 Saint-Gervais Saint-Protais Church in Gisors
- Brief history
Built between 1494 and 1657. - Strong points
Beautiful stained glass windows – old and new
The organ which was used by famous organists like Louis Couperin.
The numerous sculptures on the columns. - Location
In the town of Gisors, not far from the castle.
See the best rated accommodations in Gisors.
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…
6 most beautiful chapels in Normandy
Now let’s go a little smaller.
Most of the chapels are quite rudimentary, rectangular in shape and not very ornate. Despite this, some of them have inspired painters (like the chapel not far from the church of Saint-Cénéri-le-Gérei) because of their location.
However, there are some lovely chapels that we think you should not miss in Normandy.
#1 Chapel of Our Lady of the Good Port in Saint-Valéry-en-Caux
- Brief history
This one is quite recent. The old chapel was destroyed during the Second World War. - Strong points
The trapezoidal shape.
The highlights of the chapel are the stained glass windows that cover a large part of the walls.
Going inside is fascinating, especially on a sunny day. - Location
In the town of Saint-Valery-en-Caux, on the Alabaster coast.
See the best rated accommodations in Saint-Valéry en Caux.
#2 Notre Dame de la Garde Chapel in Étretat
- Brief history
This chapel is often the one that people have in mind when they say the church of Étretat.
It was first built around 1855 and is dedicated to the Holy Virgin. However, it was destroyed in 1942 by the Germans and a new one was rebuilt and inaugurated in 1950 (with a very different style). - Strong points
It is considered a chapel for the sailors who protect them from the top of the cliffs. Notice the fish-shaped gargoyles.
But what really makes it special are its locations overlooking the cliffs of Étretat. - Location
At the top of the cliffs north of Étretat (no access by car). Read more about my article on Étretat.
See the best rated accommodations in Étretat
#3 Chapel of Our Lady of Grace in Honfleur
- Brief history
Built in the 17th century, it is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. - Strong points
This chapel is richly decorated with paintings and models of ships offered as ex-voto by sailors.
Notice the bells located just outside without a bell tower.
The belvedere next door offers a beautiful view of the estuary. - Location
Above the town of Honfleur, on the “Plateau de Grace”, hidden in the trees.
See the best rated accommodations in Honfleur
#4 Saint-Adrien Chapel in Belbeuf
- Brief history
The present chapel was built in the 18th century. However, a chapel was established in the cave from the 16th century. - Strong points
It is partially troglodytic and has 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 best rated accommodations in Rouen.
#5 Chapel / Hermitage Saint Gerbold
- Brief history
Built in the 15th century. The chapel later became a hermitage (around 1620). - Strong points
Just look at it. The proportions seem to defy gravity! It’s so charming. - Location
Not far from the castle of Gratot, Manche department (West of Normandy)
#6 Chapel Oak of Allouville
- Strong points
A small chapel built inside and around an old tree (scientific since its plantation in the 9th century). - Location
In the city of Allouville
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4 most beautiful Normandy Basilicas
And now we are visiting great places again, but with newer buildings.
Let’s take a look at some of the basilicas in Normandy.
#1 Basilica of Lisieux
- 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 made a Saint Theresa of the Child Jesus, for her pious life and her 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 that time).
The foundation stone of the Basilica/Shrine was laid in 1929. - Strong points
It is the second most important pilgrimage site in France.
It is a rather impressive building with a beautiful view of Lisieux.
There is also much to see inside with mosaics and marble. - Location
Overlooking the city of Lisieux.
See the best rated accommodations in Lisieux
#2 Basilica of Montligeon
- Brief history
Gothic Revival style building built between 1894 and 1911. - Strong points
Pilgrimage site.
It is famous for its stained glass windows. - Location
In the small town of La Chapelle-Montligeon, in the Percheron countryside.
See the best rated accommodations around Mortagne-au-Perche
#3 Notre-Dame de Bonsecours Basilica
- Brief history
Basilica of neo-gothic style of the 19th century. - Strong points
Enjoy the constant style of the whole building inspired by 13th century elements: bell tower, sculpture gallery, rosettes, flying buttresses… - Location
Just south of Rouen, with a view of the city
See the best rated accommodations in Rouen
#4 Basilica of Douvres-la-Délivrande
- Brief history
The site has been a place of pilgrimage for a very long time (perhaps since Gallo-Roman times). It is one of the oldest pilgrimages in Normandy.
Many buildings have been erected there. The present basilica dates from the 19th century. The architect chose the Norman neo-gothic style. - Strong points
The city is also known for being the site of a major German air detection radar installation during World War II.
And for the D-day, the basilica was a clear directional landmark. It was the only church with two towers in the area. 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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The most beautiful abbeys of Normandy
Normandy is also full of magnificent abbeys.
Many of them have been destroyed or partially destroyed, but you can still imagine how great they were.
And at the height of their history, they were powerful and mostly the cultural centers of the region.
Some of our favorites are:
- The abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel
- The abbey of Jumièges
- The Abbey of Hambye
- Abbey of Saint-Goerges-de-Boscherville
- The abbey of Lucerne
- …
You will 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:
