Located in the heart of the Cotentin region, this town of Viking origins paid a heavy price during the Second World War, but has managed to rise from the ashes. Famous for its ramparts and its national stud farm, the capital of La Manche is now a town on a human scale with a very dynamic cultural scene.
The castle of Saint-Lô and its ramparts
Come and admire the ramparts of Saint-Lô, the remains of the ancient castle, once a strategic point at the crossroads of several roads and a navigable river. Charlemagne is said to have begun its construction around 800 A.D. The Tour des Beaux Regards (Tower of Beautiful Views) rises to a height of more than 30 metres and offers a panoramic view of the town, the river Vire and the neighbouring villages. The history of Saint-Lô, full of twists and turns, will fascinate you.
Saint-Lô, a stronghold of the reconstruction period
The night of 6-7 June 1944 became known as ‘The Night of Fire’. A deluge of bombs fell on the town. By the end of the summer, Saint-Lô was almost completely destroyed. The fighting also claimed civilian lives. The foundations for the rebuilding of Saint-Lô were laid in 1948. Visit the Tourist Office website to find out more about the many churches that have been rebuilt.
National Stud Farm of Saint-Lô
Saint-Lô has been entirely reconstructed following World War II, and now enjoys a rich equestrian heritage thanks to the Saint-Lô National Stud, one of the largest stud in France. The main stud buildings as they stand today were constructed in 1884 under the reign of Napoleon 1st. The only parts of the stud that survive from prior to this are the ‘rue du vieux haras’ street and the ‘Normandy’ building, which used to be an indoor riding school. The Saint-Lô National Stud currently keeps around 40 stallions and specialises in the Norman Cob and Selle français breeds. The stud is open to the general public and regularly runs guided tours and events such as the Normandy Horse Show, which takes place every August.
A true cultural identity
Saint-Lô has the reputation of being a rock town, following in the footsteps of Le Havre and Evreux in the neighbouring departments. The Rendez-Vous Soniques festival is held here every autumn, and the well-named Normandy concert hall hosts weekly events.
Places to visit near Saint-Lô
- Abbey of Saint-Vigor built in the 11th century, in Cerisy-la-Forêt
- The Parc naturel régional des marais du Cotentin et du Bessin is located 30 minutes north of Saint-Lô. To better understand this exceptional environment, we recommend a visit to the Maison du Parc in Saint-Côme-du-Mont.
- The Vire valley and its hilly bocage, ideal for hiking and river activities. Cycling enthusiasts will also find something to suit them, including a section of the Vélomaritime route.
- The 105 metre high Roches de Ham
