Church of Our Lady of Caudebec-en-Caux (Église Notre-Dame de Caudebec-en-Caux)

The Church of Our Lady of Caudebec-en-Caux is a masterpiece of Gothic Flamboyant architecture, built between 1426 and 1484 during the English occupation of Normandy. King Henri IV famously called it "the most beautiful chapel in my kingdom," while Victor Hugo described it as "a lace of stone" for its extraordinarily delicate stonework. The church features a spectacular 54-meter openwork spire known as the "Tiara of Caudebec," one of the most elaborate in Europe, with three tiers of fleur-de-lis crowns. Inside, visitors can admire remarkable 15th-16th century stained glass windows, including the rare "English Windows" depicting St. George and St. Michael, and a magnificent Renaissance organ from 1542 with one of France's finest organ cases. The west portal showcases 333 original sculptures depicting saints and medieval daily life scenes. Classified as a Monument Historique in 1840, the church is currently undergoing a 14-year restoration program, but remains fully open for visits and worship. Entry is free, and the church offers a peaceful atmosphere on the banks of the Seine, with ongoing restoration work adding an interesting dimension to the visit.