In the artistic ferment of the late 19th century, Normandy became the favourite playground of architects who wanted to give free rein to their creativity. Today, spa towns and seaside resorts bear architectural witness to the Belle Époque.
The Belle Époque
At the end of the 19th century, French society entered a period of peace, political stability and, gradually, prosperity. This marked the beginning of a period of innovation and belief in progress that lasted until the outbreak of war in 1914. Years later, this period would be nostalgically referred to as the ‘Belle Époque’.
Although life was not easy for everyone, society made many advances. Progress was technological, scientific and social, but also artistic. Architecture was one of the pillars of the cultural ferment of the 1900s.
The golden age of seaside resorts
In the 19th century, Normandy was the scene of a new phenomenon: the holiday resort. Pollution in the big cities, the development of the railways and the fashion for sea baths and spas drove the Parisian high society out of the city for the summer in search of fresh air. Normandy was calling!
Lots of small fishing villages were transformed into seaside resorts: Trouville-sur-Mer, Villers-sur-Mer, Cabourg, Houlgate and many others. In the countryside, the spa town of Bagnoles-de-l’Orne was given a new lease of life. Designed for leisure and well-being, these resorts were sure to delight holidaymakers and architects alike!
The eclectic villas of Normandy’s resorts
Seaside resorts and spa towns became the ideal playground for architects. Historical styles were revisited. The Gothic style, for example, returned with ‘La Petite Abbaye’ in Cabourg and ‘Le Petit Manoir’ in Houlgate. But these historical inspirations were also mixed together in a whirlwind of colours, shapes and materials. The aim: to create the most beautiful, original and impressive villas. Eclectic style was born!
There are many villas to discover as you stroll through the streets of Normandy’s seaside resorts. You can also discover the atmosphere of these Belle Époque villas from the inside, such as in the impressive rooms of the Villa du Temps Retrouvé in Cabourg. This museum also offers a panorama of the town’s architectural history, with free access to discover all the styles that adorn the Normandy coast!
Written by Coline Goret, guide for « Normandie à la loupe »
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