làThe place where History was writtenTopUnmissable Posted on 19.08.2023
Dive into the heart of the DDay landing beaches. From Sword beach to the Caen Memorial Museum passing through the Pegasus Bridge, discover our selection of sites to visit.
The Caen Memorial Museum tells us History
Dedicated to the History of the 20th Century, the Caen Memorial Museum is a must-see. Thanks to its route retracing the History of the DDay landing and the visit of the authentic Bunker of the general Richter in the underground tunnels, you will learn more about the History of the Second World War and the Battle of Normandy.
The Atlantic Wall Museum – The Bunker, an experience to live
This museum, direclty immerged within the former german headquarter, takes you back through the History of this decision post. Thanks to the reconstitutions of the infirmary, ammunition depot, barracks… There, you will discover the dailylife of the german soldiers. On the top of the old Bunker, a stunning vue on the DDay landing beaches awaits you.
The Museum that pays tribute to n°4 Commando
This museum is dedicated to the landings on Sword Beach, and in particular the Franco-British soldiers of the Kieffer Commando. The many authentic objects on display have been donated by British and French veterans and their families.
The Pegasus Bridge, the first liberated bridge in France and its museum
Pegasus Bridge is the name given to the bridge at Bénouville to honour the British paratroopers, otherwise known as “Paras”, whose emblem was Pegasus, a winged horse. It was liberated on the night of 5 to 6 June 1944, and the Pegasus Bridge was replaced by a similar one.
The original is in the Pegasus Memorial Park, which tells the story of the 6th British Airborne Division parachuted here.
Discover the Hillman Strongpoint
Built by the Germans between 1942 and 1944 in order to defend their positions, the Hillman Strongpoint is one of the biggest defense command post. Discover 20 blockhouses scatered over an area of 24 hectares (59 acres). A visit richin History, objects and old clothes from back in the days.
Go on a tour of the DDay landing beaches
Sword Beach is one of the 5 DDay landing beaches. It’s the unique beach where Frenchmen landed on June 6th 1944 : the Commando Kieffer and its 177 soldiers. It’s the ideal place to evoque the Liberation of Ouistreham by the Franco-British. There are a number of tour operators offering day trips from Caen to discover the D-Day landing beaches.
Pay tribute to the soldiers at the military cemeteries
Caen la mer has four Commonwealth war cemeteries. The one at Hermanville-sur-Mer is a stone’s throw from Sword Beach. Those at Saint-Manvieu-Norrey, Cambes en Plaine and Rots are not far from Caen. Places of calm and peace, they invite you to reflect and remember.
The incredible story of Bill Millin
A famous piper from Lord Lovat, Bill Millin gave courage to his fellow soldiers during the landings on 06 June 1944 by playing bagpipes on the beach. He was featured in the film Saving Private Ryan.
D-Day Wings Museum
The only museum in Normandy dedicated to the aircraft and air operations of D-Day, the D-Day Wings Museum offers visitors the chance to climb aboard machines such as bomber turrets, fighter cockpits and C-47s.
« La Délicate », an immersive walk of rememberance
Thanks to a geolocalized umbrella, dive back into the occupation days and the liberation of the center of Ouistreham during World War II thanks to the « Délicate ». You should take your time during this immersive walk, accept to disconnect from reality and let your imagination wander for a suspended moment.
