In the heart of the Normandy bocage and just ten minutes from the sea, the ‘Toledo of the Cotentin’ overlooks the surrounding area, perched on its rocky promontory.
The historic capital of the Cotentin
Between the valleys of the Prépont, Soulle and Bulsard rivers, Coutances lies on a steep hill. A natural refuge, the historic capital of the Cotentin took advantage of its location between Rennes and Valognes to become an important trading centre and a flourishing bishopric. It also benefited from the riches of the Norman kingdom of Sicily, founded by Roger de Hauteville. An important centre for books during the Renaissance, its development was halted when the prefecture was transferred to Saint-Lô. Although badly damaged by bombing in 1944, Coutances has managed to preserve its small-town charm and its unspoilt monuments. Its cathedral, one of the greatest masterpieces of Gothic architecture, is well worth a visit in itself. The parks and gardens, the Hôtel-Dieu, the churches of Saint-Pierre and Saint-Nicolas and the beautiful mansions have made Coutances a listed town of art and history.
What to see and do in Coutances?
- Notre-Dame Cathedral: Once a Romanesque cathedral, it was refurbished in one of the finest Gothic styles worthy of the Mont-Saint-Michel. While the Romanesque foundations of the building are a must-see, you can also visit the heights of the cathedral, 30 metres above the ground. It’s breathtaking!
- Musée Quesnel-Morinière: Paintings and objects illustrating the life of Vieux-Coutances. The museum has a fine collection of Norman ceramics.
- Jardin des Plantes: Listed as a Historic Monument in 1992, this garden has been preserved in its original form from the 17th century.
What to see and do around Coutances?
- Château fort de Pirou and its legends
- Musée Tancrède-de-Hauteville: The history of the Normans in Sicily
- Château de Gratot
- Barneville-Carteret: a lively seaside town
- Granville, the ‘Monaco of the North’