France: Caen

Caen is a major city in Normandy, founded in the 11th century by William the Conqueror (who went on to conquer England). The town has been the site of many battles over years, including the liberation in 1944. Still, a lot of historical monuments remain to explore and see. The castle of Caen, built by William the Conqueror in 1060, is one of the largest fortresses in Europe. Next to it is the massive St Pierre Cathedral built in the 13th century, with gargoyles and spires. In repentance for marrying his cousin, William ordered two separate abbeys to be built on two end of the town – Abbaye aux Dammes (women’s) and Abbaye aux Hommes (men’s), both spectacular medieval churches.