Beaumont-En-Auge: Church, Half-Timbered Houses and Local History

Explore Beaumont-En-Auge through its architectural and religious history, or take a walk that begins in the village. Its historical connections span the church of Saint-Sauveur’s Carolingian past and half-timbered houses dating from the 16th and 18th centuries. There is also Le chemin des Buttes, a 7.0-kilometre walking trail. When planning your stay, you can focus on two different things: historic sites and a specific walking route. If you are looking for a hotel, these themes can help you find a stay in Beaumont-En-Auge that matches your interests.

Half-Timbered Houses and Local History

La Grande Rue already had market halls in the Middle Ages; today, the street is defined by the adjoining half-timbered houses dating from the 16th and 18th centuries. This juxtaposes the medieval market setting with later periods of construction. These different historical periods offer a starting point if you want to consider the village not only in terms of individual buildings but also how it developed.

Some houses also have their own historical significance. The Auberge du Coq Hardi dates from the 16th century and is among the oldest houses in the village. The « maison bleue » is considered the oldest surviving house in Beaumont-En-Auge. The descriptions make different distinctions: the Auberge is among the oldest, while the « maison bleue » is considered the oldest surviving house.

Church, Priory and Educational History

As an exceptional testament to Beaumont-En-Auge’s Carolingian past, the church of Saint-Sauveur dates back to the 9th century. Its lantern tower became a place of worship and pilgrimage. The priory of Beaumont-En-Auge was founded in 1060 at the behest of one of William the Conqueror’s confidants. It welcomed a Benedictine community and was one of the oldest pilgrimage sites in Normandy. The church and priory bring religious architectural history and the tradition of pilgrimage together within the same historical theme.

The priory courtyard at the church of Saint-Sauveur is open to visitors. Check the current access arrangements before your visit.

The village’s educational history is also part of its story. The Congregation of Saint-Maur educated 120 pupils at the École Royale Militaire in Beaumont-En-Auge. The royal and military college of Beaumont-En-Auge was founded by Louis XVI in 1776 and educated more than 100 future royal officers. Thus, the village’s history includes education and military training as well as religious institutions.

Collections, Views and Walking

The Musée Langlois has paintings and sketches by Colonel Langlois depicting the panorama of the Battle of Solferino. Since 17 September 2003, the museum has held the designation « Musée de France » under the French Heritage Code. The artistic depiction of the battle and the museum’s official status add further cultural themes to the historic buildings.

Beaumont-En-Auge lies at an altitude of 90 metres and overlooks the Touques valley. In good weather, the sea may also be visible from the panoramic viewpoint. The view over the valley is another feature of the village; the possibility of seeing the sea depends on good weather.

Walking is represented by a specific route, Le chemin des Buttes: it starts in Beaumont-En-Auge and is 7.0 kilometres long. Its stated length gives you a tangible point of reference for planning. You can therefore consider the village’s history and a walk as different focuses for your stay.

Discover more destinations: Livarot, Rubercy, Lisieux, Clécy, Le Pré-D'auge, Branville, Crocy, Glanville

For the full travel guide: Calvados.