Like the rest of France, Normandy has a rich religious heritage when it comes to architecture.
Below, I will introduce you to the 7 Normandy cathedrals as well as my section of the best Normandy churches and chapels for you to discover the variety of religious buildings.
This article contains affiliate links (Disclosure page). If you purchase using my link, I get a commission at no extra cost to you.
The Religious Heritage in Normandy
Normandy has a long and rich history.
The cathedrals and other religious buildings have played a central role in that history.
Most of the cathedrals are from the times when Normandy was almost a separate country. But many others are from various periods giving you a rich experience.
Below you can find the 7 cathedrals.
However for churches and chapels, I have selected only my favorites, because there are too many to count!
They are some of the best places to visit in Normandy.
The 7 Normandy Cathedrals
Today there are 7 cathedrals stills standing in Normandy (but only 6 dioceses since the last reordering).
They are all very different and worth a visit.
It is always mind-blowing to imagine how they were able to build those giants and adorn them.
#1 Rouen Cathedral
- Brief history
The cathedral has been built over 800 years, from the 12th century. It has elements from the Early Gothic up to the Renaissance style and late Flamboyant.
Several fires destroyed part of the cathedral over the years. But it was always rebuilt and transformed.
During the revolution part of the furniture was sold or melted down, but it was transformed into a Temple of Reason so it did not suffer too much.
During WWII, it was hit twice. But sculptures and stained-glass windows had been protected. It reopened in 1956 - Highlights
Rouen is the most impressive cathedral of them all. But also, the most difficult to photograph because of its size (width and height).
The west front with the portals is absolutely splendid with many sculptures.
What surprises the most are the 3 towers of various styles. Only one has a spire (that reaches 151m).
Inside, you can find an impressive nave, the tomb with the heart of Richard the Lion-Hearted and preserved 13th century stained-glass windows. - Location
In the center of the town of Rouen
See the best rated accommodations in Rouen
#2 Coutances Cathedral
- Brief history
The current gothic cathedral built in the 13th century.
Compared to other cathedrals, this one has remained quite similar to how it was when built. It was lucky and not too damaged during the wars of Religion, the revolution and WWII. - Highlights
The cathedral is a classic Gothic style with long vertical lines. The twin towers are 80m tall (295ft).
Admire the proportion and the symmetry.
Inside, this is one of my favorite naves. The sculpted columns and upper levels are stunning.
And you can still see stained-glass windows from the 13th century as well as flooring tiles from medieval times. - Location
In the center of Coutances. It dominates the town and can be seen from far away (some say from as far as the Island of Jersey).
See the best rated accommodations in Coutances
#3 Bayeux Cathedral
- Brief history
It is known as Our Lady of Bayeux. Before being in the museum, this is where the famous Bayeux tapestry was on display.
The current cathedral was consecrated in the 11th century in the presence of William, King of England and Duke of Normandy.
It was damaged in the 12th century are rebuilt in Gothic style. - Highlights
Appreciate walking around the cathedral and seeing the various layers in the architecture.
Inside, you can admire the details in the sculptures around the nave.
But the main attraction is the crypt and its frescoes. - Location
In the center of the town of Bayeux.
See the best rated accommodations in Bayeux
#4 Evreux Cathedral
- Brief history
It is known as Our Lady of Evreux. It was first built in the 10th century and the arcades still show the Romanesque style.
However most of this original building was destroyed in a fire during the 12th century.
This cathedral has elements from many different periods - e.g. the west façade mostly from the 16th century.
Sadly, most of the stained-glass windows were destroyed during WWII. They were restored in 1953.
Its spire reaches 75m. - Highlights
For this cathedral, I prefer the side views to the façade. The arches and spires are splendid.
Inside, don't miss the gothic choir and all its colorful windows.
The other interest is the location of the Iton River just in front of the cathedral. - Location
In the center of the town of Evreux.
See the best rated accommodations in Evreux.
#5 Sées Cathedral
- Brief history
This is one of the lesser-known cathedral in Normandy.
It was built in the 13th and 14th centuries. It was consecrated in 1310.
It has suffered a lot during history, and it was not built on strong foundations. So, it is constantly being restored and consolidated. - Highlights
The dimensions inside are beautifully proportioned, in my opinion.
And the stained-glass rosaces are beautiful. - Location
In the heart of the town of Sées.
See the best rated accommodations in Sées.
#6 Lisieux Cathedral
- Brief history
The current building was built in the 12th and 13th centuries. And you can see the rather stern architecture in early gothic style. The South tower is from the 16th century with a spire from the 17th.
The town was heavily damaged during WWII, but the cathedral was preserved. - Highlights
The cathedral is often overlooked, because Lisieux is home to a modern impressive basilica (information further down in the article), However the contrast between the 2 buildings is interesting to look at. And this is where Thérèse Martin went to mass. She is the one to whom the basilica is dedicated.
It is home to the tomb of Bishop Cauchon, who tried Joan of Arc. - Location
In the center of the town of Lisieux.
See the best rated accommodations in Lisieux
#7 Le Havre Cathedral
- First, let me warn you, this cathedral does not look like a cathedral. It is not tall like the others. But don't be disappointed, le Havre is also home to one of the most surprising churches in Normandy (see in next section).
- Brief history
The building dates back to the 16th and 17th centuries (since to town was established in 1517). It was consecrated as a cathedral in 1974.
It is quite impressive that it is still standing, because most of the town was destroyed during WWII. It was damaged too but restored to its primitive shape. So now, it is one of the oldest buildings in town. - Highlights
Appreciate the completely different style of this cathedral. It has a mix of Baroque, Gothic and Renaissance styles - especially the Renaissance facade with the ionic columns contrasting with the large square tower.
Inside, feel the years of history and all it has seen. - Location
Just a few minutes walk from the town hall. In the middle of the Unesco-listed architecture of Le Havre.
See the best rated accommodations in Le Havre.
Normandy Cathedrals map
Below is a map to help you located them around the region:
All the stunning religious sites listed in this article are included in my eBook, with practical maps to help you early plan your road trip around Normandy:
Be overwhelmed by the beauty, not the planning!
Plan your perfect trip around Normandy with:
- 8 easy-to-plan Maps
- 160+ pre-selected scenic locations
- Planning tips to make the most of your time
- 315+ large photos to decide where to go
- GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
10 Best Churches in Normandy
Now, let's have a look at the churches. Almost all villages, towns and cities have at least one church. Many have several.
I am not listing them all here.
The list below includes churches that have something special, something different that I thought made them fascinating to visit. This is a personal selection.
#1 Saint-Joseph Church in le Havre
- Brief history
Built between 1951 and 1957, the inside was only finished in 1964. So, Auguste Perret, the architect, never saw it built. - Highlights
It has a unique square structure with the distinctive style of Auguste Perret - The base is square, and the tower is 107m tall and hollow in the middle. It stands on the angles!
Go inside when the sun is shining, the colors of the stain glass reflect everywhere!
More in my Le Havre article. - Location
In the center of Le Havre. Close to the seafront
See the best rated accommodations in Le Havre
#2 Sainte Catherine church in Honfleur
- Brief history
Built during the second half of the 15th century. - Highlights
This is so surprising that this church is still standing. It is almost entirely built from wood, which is very rare in France.
Take the time to look at the outside with the roof and the sides partially covered in chestnuts shingles. Notice also the shape of the bell tower, separated from the church (to protect the parishioners in case of fire).
Then walk inside. What do you notice?
It looks like an up-side down boat. This is because the first nave was built using naval techniques - Location
Just next to the harbor of Honfleur - see my article with the best things to do.
See the best rated accommodations in Honfleur
#3 Old St. Stephen's Church in Caen
- Brief history
Probably founded in the 10th century. It was badly damaged many times through history, because it was located along the ramparts of the city. - Highlights
It is not the most original in terms of structure. But the half destroyed, half still standing situation really caught my eyes.
I find the balance very beautiful and I could not stop staring at it, despite being next to the magnificent Abbaye-aux-Hommes.
This is why, I decided to include it here - Location
In the center of the town of Caen, district of Calvados.
See the best rated accommodations in Caen.
#4 Saint-Martin church in Yport
- Brief history
From the 19th century - Highlights
Yport is one of my favorite villages in Normandy. It is not the most famous, but I just love the vibe of it.
Part of the reason is the typical architecture of the houses and of the church with bicolor rock walls.
Plus, the church tower with 2 mini towers is absolutely charming. - Location
In the village of Yport, along the Alabaster coast.
See the best rated accommodations in Yport.
#5 Saint-Julien church in Domfront
- Brief history
Erected in 1924 in a neo-byzantine style. - Highlights
This church of Saint-Julien has quite a unique style - it was built in reinforced concrete with a surprising shape on a square plan.
And don't miss the mosaics inside (byzantine style). - Location
In the old center of Domfront en Poiraie
See the best rated accommodations in Domfront
#6 Saint-Pierre la Vieille church
- Brief history
originally built in the 15th century and restored later. - Highlights
I was always enjoying the towers of the churches in Western Normandy. they are basics but quite elegant, I think.
But this church was more surprising with the 5 tall windows on each side.
Driving towards it, I was fascinated by the structure. - Location
In the village of Saint-Pierre la Vieille, in the Suisse Normande area
See the best rated accommodations in Clécy.
#7 Saint-Germain Church in Argentan
- Brief history
Built in the 15th centuries and completed in the 18th century.
First built in a flamboyant Gothic style (hence the flame-shaped motifs), the building was completed in a Renaissance style. - Highlights
This church is a bit more classic than the others listed. But what is surprising is that it looks like a cathedral, which is why I have included it.
Enjoy the magnificent porch from the 15th century, the lantern tower and the magnificent bell tower. The proportions feel almost perfect. - Location
In the town of Argentan, district of Orne.
See the best rated accommodations in Argentan.
#8 Saint-Nicolas Church in Barfleur
- Brief history
The current church was built between the 17th and 19th centuries (It has been destroyed twice already). - Highlights
I was surprised by this church. It has a very unique architecture, and its location by the sea in the charming village of Barfleur does help.
It has a variety of rooftop shapes: classic triangular, square tower, dome, angular... There is no boring angle to look at it.
But what I find the most surprising is the square tower. Because of it, the church looks like a tiny castle. - Location
In the village of Barfleur.
See the best rated accommodations in the region
#9 Saint-Cénéri-le-Gérei church
- Brief history
The current church has a Roman Style. It was built in 1089 by the Giroie family where the wooden church built by Saint-Cénéri used to be (destroyed in 903 by the Normans).
The bell tower was added during the 12th century.
Modifications happened in the 14th and 19th centuries, especially with the windows. - Highlights
The church is famous for the beautiful mural paintings, some probably date back to the 12th century, but most are from the 16th to the 20th.
The oldest ones had been covered by plaster in 1650 and were re-discovered in 1828.
The vault is particularly interesting in my opinion. It has been plastered too. But in 1980 it was restored, and 40 musician angels were found on it. - Location
In the village of Saint-Cénéri-le-Gérei - learn more in this article
See the best rated accommodations in Alençon
#10 Saint-Gervais Saint-Protais church
- Brief history
Built between 1494 and 1657. - Highlights
The beautiful stained-glass windows - old and new
The organ that was used by famous organists such as Louis Couperin.
The many sculptures on the columns. - Location
In the town of Gisors, not far from the castle.
See the best rated accommodations in Gisors.
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6 Best Chapels in Normandy
Now let's go a little smaller.
Most chapels are quite basic with a rectangular shape and not many adornments. Despite that, a few have inspired painters (like the chapel not far from the church of Saint-Cénéri-le-Gérei) because of their location.
However, there are a few adorable chapels that, I think, you should not miss in Normandy.
#1 Saint-Valéry-en-Caux Chapel "Notre Dame du bon port"
- Brief history
This one is quite recent. The old chapel was destroyed during WWII. - Highlights
The trapeze shape.
The chapel's highlights are the stained-glass windows covering many of the walls.
Entering inside is fascinating, especially on a sunny day. - Location
In the town of Saint-Valery-en-Caux, Alabaster coast.
See the best rated accommodations in Saint-Valery-en-Caux
#2 Étretat Chapel "Notre Dame de la Garde"
- Brief history
This chapel is often the one people have in mind when they say the church of Étretat.
It was first built around 1855 and is dedicated to the Holy Virgin. However, it was destroyed in 1942 by the Germans and a new one was rebuilt and inaugurated in 1950 (with a very different style). - Highlights
It is considered as a chapel for sailors protecting them from the top of the cliffs. Notice the gargoyles in the shape of fish.
But what really makes it special is its locations with the views of the Étretat cliffs. - Location
At the top of the Northern cliffs of Étretat (no access by car). Learn more on my article about Étretat.
See the best rated accommodations in Étretat
#3 Honfleur Chapel "Notre dame de Grâce"
- Brief history
Built during the 17th century, it is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. - Highlights
This chapel is richly adorned with paintings and models of ships offered ex-voto by sailors.
Notice the bells located just outside without a bell tower.
The viewpoint next to it offers beautiful views of the estuary. - Location
Above the town of Honfleur, on "Plateau de Grâce", hidden in the trees.
See the best rated accommodations in Honfleur
#4 Saint-Adrien Chapel in Belbeuf
- Brief history
The current chapel was built in the 18th century. However, a chapel has been established in the cave from the 16th century. - Highlights
It is partially troglodytic and with half-timbered walls and a thatched roof!!!!!
Admire it from the riverside carpark.
Very limited access. - Location
Village of Belbeuf, just south of Rouen.
See the best rated accommodations in Rouen.
#5 Chapel / Hermitage Saint Gerbold
- Brief history
Built in the 15th century. The chapel later became a hermitage (around 1620). - Highlights
Just look at it. The proportions seem to defy gravity! So charming. - Location
Not far from the Gratot Castle, District of La Manche (West Normandy)
#6 Chene Chapel Allouville
Le ghola, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
- Highlights
A small chapel built inside and around an old tree (scientists since it was planted in the 9th century). - Location
In the town of Allouville
4 Best Basilicas in Normandy
And now we are visiting large sites again but with more recent buildings.
Let's have a look at some of the basilicas in Normandy.
#1 Lisieux Basilica
- Brief history
From an early age, Thérèse Martin became fascinated with religious life. She joined the Carmelite nunnery at only 15. In 1925, she was made Sainte-Thérèse de l’Enfant Jésus, for her pious life and her writings on faith. In 1997, Pope John Paul II declared her the 33rd Doctor of the Catholic Church (the only woman with that title at the time).
The first stone of the basilica / Sanctuary was set up in 1929. - Highlights
This is the second most important pilgrimage site in France.
It is quite an impressive building with nice views of Lisieux.
There is much to see inside as well with mosaics and marble. - Location
Overlooking the town of Lisieux.
See the best rated accommodations in Lisieux
#2 Montligeon Basilica
- Brief history
Neo-gothic style building built between 1894 and 1911. - Highlights
Pilgrimage site.
It is famous for its stained-glass windows. - Location
In the small town of La Chapelle-Montligeon, in the Perche countryside.
See the best rated accommodations around Mortagne-au-Perche
#3 Notre-Dame de Bonsecours Basilica
- Brief history
Gothic revival basilica from the 19th century. - Highlights
Appreciate the constant style throughout the building inspired from the 13th century features: bell tower, gallery of sculptures, rose windows, flying buttresses... - Location
Just South of Rouen, overlooking the city
See the best rated accommodations in Rouen
#4 Douvres-la-Délivrande Basilica
- Brief history
The site has been a pilgrimage site for a very long time (maybe back to the Gallo-Roman period). It is one of the oldest pilgrimages in Normandy.
Many buildings have been set up here. The current basilica dates back to the 19th century. The architect chose the Norman neo-gothic style. - Highlights
The town is also famous as being the site of an important German air-detection radar installation during WWII.
And for D-day, the basilica was a clear directional landmark. It was the only church with 2 towers in the area. Therefore, it was used to separate the Juno and Sword sectors. - Location
In the small town Douvres-la-Délivrande
See the best rated accommodations near Douvres-la-Délivrande
Best Abbeys in Normandy
Normandy is also full of magnificent abbeys.
Many of them were destroyed or partially destroyed, but you can still imagine how grandiose they were.
And at the peak of their history, they were powerful and most of the time the cultural centers of the region.
Some of my favorites are:
- Mont-Saint-Michel abbey
- Jumièges Abbey
- Hambye Abbey
- Saint-Goerges-de-Boscherville Abbey
- Lucerne Abbey
- ...
You can find them all in my article about the 10 best abbeys to visit in Normandy.
Want to see more of the best Normandy has to offer?
- 45 Most beautiful landscapes in Normandy - read article
- 42 Best things to do in Normandy - read article
- 10 most charming villages in Normandy - read article
- 16 best castles and their parks - read article
- 5 Best destinations in Normandy - read article
- The best beaches in Normandy - read article
- The best cities and towns - read article
Planning a trip to Normandy?
Check out my travel guide to help you plan:
Be overwhelmed by the beauty, not the planning!
Plan your perfect trip around Normandy with:
- 8 easy-to-plan Maps
- 160+ pre-selected scenic locations
- Planning tips to make the most of your time
- 315+ large photos to decide where to go
- GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
And keep track of your own trip!
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