Calvados, located in the Normandy region of northwestern France, is an area of the country that has charmed the Impressionists and played a key role in world history. This is what the torch will endeavour to highlight throughout this long day in the department. The torch's journey will begin at a venerated site of remembrance: Omaha Beach and the D-Day landing beaches. The torch will then move on to Lisieux where it will swing by Saint Theresa's Basilica, whose foundation stone was laid in 1929. It will advance to Cabourg, Dives-sur-Mer, and Houlgate. It will also make a stop at Honfleur to explore the vicinity of the lighthouse built in 1853.

Bayeux will set the scene for the rest of the day. The torch will visit the Battle of Normandy Memorial Museum, which recounts the battles fought there in World War II. From there, it will head to Notre-Dame Cathedral in Bayeux, the construction of which began in the 11^th century. The torch will call it a day at William the Conqueror's castle in Falaise, which dates to the 10^th century. The celebrations will then continue in Caen.

Celebrations in Caen

A city of history and heritage boasting more green space than any other French town bar one, Caen ranks among the most dynamic places in the country, making it a perfect spot for the closing celebrations of the stage relay. The Torch's afternoon expedition will start in Hérouville-Saint-Clair, a suburb of Caen. It will begin its tour of the City of a Hundred Spires in the Parc de l'Abbaye aux Dames before swinging by the marina and running down the banks of the Orne. The journey will go on near the Tour Leroy, a relic of the 14^th century, and Saint Peter's Church. A stop at Caen Castle, which William the Conqueror worked hard to reshape centuries ago, is also on the agenda. The crowds will turn out in force for the torch opposite the Hôtel d'Escoville, built during the Renaissance and renovated following World War II. Finally, it will set a course for the Abbaye aux Hommes, which houses City Hall and will play host to the final celebrations and lighting of the cauldron.

Celebration venue info

Come and celebrate the passing of the Olympic flame in Caen !

The celebration site is free and open to all from 3.30pm to 7.45pm at the following address: ESPLANADE JEAN MARIE LOUVEL,
14000 CAEN

A festive programme open to all awaits you, including :

• events organised by the local authorities: sport, music, shows, etc.
• stands run by the Relay of the Flame sponsors:
  • Coca-Cola will be providing a musical and festive atmosphere
  • Banque Populaire will be giving the public the chance to try out water sports
  • Caisse d'Epargne will be dedicating its stand to basketball and handball
• a show organised by the sponsors on the sports slab from 6 p.m.
• 7.20pm: the arrival of the last torchbearer and the lighting of the Olympic cauldron, a moment not to be missed!

Note: a giant screen, a host and a DJ will also be on hand to get the public in the mood for the Torch Relay!