THE BOY WHO SURVIVED
A Journey through Medieval Caen in the Footsteps of William the Conqueror
Most visitors know Caen for its 1944 sacrifice, but within the resurrected city lies a medieval epic etched in stone. At the center of this story stands a child who was never meant to survive.
At just nine years old, the boy who would become "The Conqueror" lost his father -- leaving him vulnerable in a world where noble children were routinely eliminated as rivals to power.
This tour follows the extraordinary trajectory of an orphan who survived multiple assassination attempts, secured his ducal authority, and went on to transform the political map of Europe. His bloodline continues within the British royal family to this day.
We will see why William chose Caen as his capital and how he used "propaganda in stone" to legitimize and secure his rule.
We will also uncover the man behind the legend, as well as the love of his life - Matilda of Flanders, the Lady for whom William defied the Pope, and without whom there would not be a story to tell !
Starting at the ramparts of Caen Castle, where he held court, and ending at the Abbey of Saint Étienne, where he chose to be buried, this walk traces the life of a ruler who was as tempestuous as he was visionary.
Suitable for all ages and backgrounds.
