Sainte-Mère-Église Church (Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption)
About Sainte-Mère-Église Church (Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption)
This 12th-13th century Norman church gained worldwide fame during D-Day when American paratrooper John Steele's parachute caught on the bell tower, leaving him suspended 12 meters above the ground for two hours. A mannequin named "Big Jim" now hangs from the steeple to commemorate this event, visible from the town square. Inside, visitors can see two memorial stained glass windows by master glassmaker Gabriel Loire: one from 1947 depicting the Virgin Mary with paratroopers, and the 1969 Paratroopers' Window featuring Saint Michael, gifted by 505th Regiment veterans. The building combines Romanesque elements from the 12th century with early Gothic architecture. Listed as a French Historic Monument since 1840, the church stands just 50 meters from the Airborne Museum. Entry is free, though hours vary - check with the Tourism Office on Rue Eisenhower before visiting.
Interesting Facts
John Steele pretended to be dead while hanging from the church steeple for two hours. A barn was burning below him, and German soldiers were fighting in the streets. He was eventually captured but escaped when the 3rd Battalion of the 505th Regiment liberated the town later that day, capturing 30 Germans and killing 11.
The church's famous paratrooper mannequin wasn't installed until the 1960s, initially as a temporary display. It became so popular with visitors that it was made permanent. The mannequin has been replaced several times due to weather damage, and locals affectionately call it "Big Jim."
Sainte-Mère-Église was the first French town to be liberated on D-Day, in the early hours of June 6, 1944. The church bell was ringing during the paratrooper drop because villagers were fighting a fire at a nearby house - this unintentionally lit up the landing zone for both Allied paratroopers and German defenders.
Planning Your Visit
Opening Hours
Location & Practical Info
Address
Place du 6 Juin, 50480 Sainte-Mère-Église, France
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