Le Vaugueux
About Le Vaugueux
Le Vaugueux is Caen's most charming medieval quarter, nestled in a picturesque valley between the rocky escarpment of William the Conqueror's castle and the Ladies Abbey plateau. First mentioned in a charter by Robert Curthose as 'Vallisgue' during the Norman period, this historic neighborhood has preserved its original medieval street layout with narrow, winding cobblestone streets and traditional half-timbered houses. Remarkably, the lower part of Rue du Vaugueux and Rue Haute survived the devastating Allied bombings of June-July 1944 that destroyed 85% of Caen. The area was designated a protected historic site in 1978 and pedestrianized in 1980. Today, Le Vaugueux is a vibrant dining destination with numerous traditional Norman restaurants housed in preserved medieval buildings, making it perfect for an evening stroll and dinner after visiting nearby Caen Castle.
Interesting Facts
During the tragic bombing of July 7, 1944, a shelter at 50 Rue du Vaugueux housing the Civil Defense sector headquarters collapsed, burying 67 refugees—38 of whom perished. This devastating event is still commemorated by local residents, making the survival of the lower quarter all the more remarkable.
British soldiers entered liberated Caen through Rue du Vaugueux on July 9, 1944, making this medieval street one of the first routes of freedom into the devastated city. The narrow cobblestone passage that once saw Norman merchants became the path of liberation.
Planning Your Visit
Opening Hours
Location & Practical Info
Address
Rue du Vaugueux, 14000 Caen, France
Day Routes
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Cultural Caen in one day
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Historic Caen: From William the Conqueror to Medieval Streets
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Multi-day Itineraries
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