Bayeux
We went to see the Bayeux Tapestry which chronicles the 1066 Norman invasion of England. We have always seen it in pictures, but it is so different to see it in real life. This astonding embroidery gives a beautiful depiction of the events surrounding the Battle of Hastings.
During our tour of Bayeux, we saw a tree shown in the center picture below . This tree was planted as a remembrance of the French Revolution and has been standing for almost 200 years.
During our tour of Bayeux, we saw a tree shown in the center picture below . This tree was planted as a remembrance of the French Revolution and has been standing for almost 200 years.
The Group in Front of the French Revolution Remembrance Tree
Cafe Calvodos
Sticking with our plan to try as much of the local fare as possible, Eric and I each ordered a Cafe Calvodos, which is an espresso with a shot of Calvodos (apple brandy) in it. Though this was a bit strong for us, we knew that whe had to try it after Rebecca told us that it is a popular drink that Norman fishermen have in the morning before starting their day. Eric also tried tripe. I wasn't that brave!
A tour of the D-Day Beaches with Nigel
Nigel, our Normandy tour guide, gave an amazing introduction to each of the sites that we visited. He found a way to give enough information for my history teacher husband,
while making history come alive for everyone in our group.
while making history come alive for everyone in our group.
The German Cemetery
The German Cemetery is quite different from the American or British cemeteries, but it's very nice. There is a lovely monument up on a hill, to the families of the soldiers.
Sainte-Mère-Église
Being at Sainte-Mère-Église was a stark reminder of the fierce fighting that took place prior to the Normandy invasions as is described in Cornelius Ryan's book, The Longest Day.
The Church
The Church has a parachute memorial to John Steele, whose parachute got caught on the spire of the church. Inside the church, there are beautiful stained glass windows. They pay tribute to the paratroopers that liberated of the town on June 6, 1944.
Utah Beach
There are several moving memorials here to the men who gave their lives to liberate France.
Pointe Du Hoc
While visiting Pointe Du Hoc, we were able to see the damage done by Allied bombing and bombardment. There are enormous craters in the landscape left from the bombs. Many of the German bunkers still remain, which, of course, we explored.
Omaha Beach
Our guide, Nigel's, storytelling was quite engaging and he made the location's history come alive.
American Cemetery
I found the the crosses of unknown soldiers especially moving.
"HERE RESTS IN HONORED GLORY
A COMRADE IN ARMS
KNOWN BUT TO GOD"
The Memorial
Metal of Honor recipients who are burried here have the writing on their headstone written in gold.