Discover Magny-En-Bessin: Château, Church and Water Heritage
Accommodation in Magny-En-Bessin
The Château de Magny-en-Bessin has a classical, symmetrical design. The Château de Magny-en-Bessin, Église Saint-Malo and Fontaine de la Gronde represent different aspects of the town’s history. Église Saint-Malo has a Latin cross plan with five bays; Fontaine de la Gronde was built in 1694 at the source of the coastal river La Gronde to make it easier to draw water. Comparing the architectural forms reveals different features: the Château has a classical, symmetrical design, while Église Saint-Malo has a Latin cross plan and a two-storey bell tower.
The Château de Magny-en-Bessin and its history
The Château de Magny-en-Bessin and its park have been listed as historic monuments since 31 May 1946. The château is characterised by classical architecture and a symmetrical design. In March 2016, it was partially destroyed by two consecutive fires. Its 1946 listing as a historic monument predates the two consecutive fires in March 2016, which partially destroyed the Château.
The Château is privately owned. If you are planning a visit, check the visiting arrangements in advance. As a geographic reference point, the château is located on the regional road connecting Bayeux and Arromanches. These two places mark the route of the road and help indicate the Château’s location.
Church architecture and historic building forms
Église Saint-Malo was built in the first half of the 13th century. Its floor plan is in the shape of a Latin cross and comprises five bays.
A two-storey bell tower rises above the choir. The first storey has buttresses, while the upper storey has paired arched openings. A pulpit with a confessional in Église Saint-Malo was made between 1849 and 1857. The church was built in the first half of the 13th century.
A double-sided processional banner depicting the “Virgin Mary and a Bishop” was also listed as a protected object; it was listed on 8 January 1985.
From former prison to residence
Magny-En-Bessin is home to a former seigneurial prison dating from the 18th century. The building has been used as a residence since 1986.
Fontaine de la Gronde and the river
The fountain served to draw water at the river’s source; the river’s mouth directs the view along the course of La Gronde to the English Channel. The purpose of the structure and the river’s coastal geography are thus two aspects to consider.
The river La Gronde flows into the English Channel at Asnelles. The fountain is at the source of La Gronde; at Asnelles, the river flows into the English Channel.
Discover more destinations: Audrieu, Eraines, Tourville-En-Auge, Creully, Saint Philbert Des Champs, Louvières, Litteau, Thury-Harcourt.
View the broader travel guide: Calvados.
