Castles, mounds, palaces, abbeys: places of life, places of power.

Rallye discovering the architectural heritage of the 11th and 12th centuries in Seine-Maritime

A day of visits takes the form of a heritage rally dedicated to the architecture of the ducal era in Seine-Maritime. It highlights the residential spaces of the 11th and 12th centuries through various types of remains: motte-and-bailey castles, donjons, châteaux, palaces, and abbeys.

Each stop is based on a historical event or a figure related to William the Conqueror — ancestors, companions, adversaries, or descendants — while also opening perspectives for comparison with contemporary architecture across the Channel. The visits are conducted by local historians and professional guides.
The journey begins at the Abbey of Jumièges, a symbolic site consecrated in 1067 in the presence of William. The day continues with a team-based itinerary organized as carpooling, punctuated by puzzles to solve that provide access to the various stages.

Moments of conviviality punctuate the experience: welcome, quick lunch, closing moment, and prize distribution. The whole is a dynamic proposition that combines heritage discovery, play, and collective experience.

Practical information:
All audiences
Fee; €35 per adult | free for children up to 12 years
Registration required, limited number of places

Partnerships: Abbey of Jumièges – Departmental Museums of Seine-Maritime and Fécamp: Virginie Sampic, Director of Cultural Affairs of the city of Fécamp and responsible for the City of Art and History label