In the 11th century, Fecamp Abbey played an important role in the story of William the Conqueror, who hailed from Fecamp. Indeed members of his family are interred within its walls. The 12th- century Romanesque church was burned in , and the present church was erected under Abbots Henry of Sully —87 and Raoul of Argences — , the lantern tower over the transept being built under Abbot William of Vaspail — In the abbey numbered 27 maurists; it was suppressed in the French Revolution, and the abbey church became a parish church.
Today, people visit the beautiful Gothic Fecamp Abbey both by way of pilgrimage and to marvel at its architecture and historic treasures.
The large Gothic structure, of exceptional length metres , has interior decorations from the 15th and 16th centuries that are of particular interest. These include the tabernacle of the Precious Blood, the sculpture of the Dormition of the Virgin, and the magnificent Renaissance gates that enclose the chapels around the choir. Particularly light and airy inside, the church is a wonderful place to spend an hour admiring the wonderful stained glass, beautiful sculptures, and a unique astronomical clock from The chapels are decorated in the early Renaissance style, except for the 15th century Chapel of the Virgin which is more flamboyant.
Outside, the lantern tower standing 60 metres high is an imposing sight. It is around 35 kilometres northeast of Le Havre 45 minute drive , and around 60 kilometres northwest of Rouen 1 hour drive. If travelling via public transport, there are direct trains from Paris to Fecamp 3 hours and 20 min.
From towering imposing castles to First World War trenches, ancient Roman ruins to historic Revolutionary sites, France is brimming with relics of its esteemed and turbulent history. Here's our pick of 10 of the very best attractions in the country. Image Credit: Shutterstock. Fecamp Abbey today Today, people visit the beautiful Gothic Fecamp Abbey both by way of pilgrimage and to marvel at its architecture and historic treasures.
