Sainte-Mother-Church, France
Normandy: visit Sainte-Mère-Église
Sainte-Mère-Église is a small village, a few kilometers from Utah Beach, located in the Manche department. On D-DAY, it was one of the first places liberated by the Americans thanks to a historical parachute drop.
We have transcribed our half-day in Sainte-Mère-Église in this article. On the program, strolling through this small Norman town, discovering its history and tasting its specialties. Ready to read on?
The story of John Steele
During the Operation Overlord, John Steel, one of the paratroopers, got stuck clinging to the church steeple. This mishap somehow saved him from German fire during the parachute jump. Two hours later, he was released from his parachute and once on the ground, he was treated and captured by the Germans. He regained his freedom a few days later.
The fabulous story of John Steel was featured in the film "The Longest Day" which recounts the events of the Normandy landings.
Notre-Dame de l'Assomption Church
Located on the village square, the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption in Sainte-Mère-Église was built between the 12th and 13th centuries. It has been listed as a historical monument since 1840.
Don't hesitate to observe the facades of the buildings surrounding the church square. Their typical stone facades are magnificent.
Visit to the Airborne Museum
The Airborne Museum of Sainte-Mère-Église in Normandy is a World War II museum dedicated to the American paratroopers of the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions. The museum is divided into 5 pavilions dedicated to the history and design of gliders as well as the related missions.
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Practical information
💸 11.5 € per adult (17 years and older)
🕓 Discover the hours here.
📍 Rue Eisenhower 14, 50480 Sainte-Mère-Église
Where to eat in Sainte-Mère-Église? Our local recommendations
Have a drink at the Sainte-Mère-Église Brewery
This local brewery opens its doors in a pub atmosphere to taste their local beers and their tapas boards made from regional products.
Pushing open their door, we were transported by the décor and atmosphere that prevails. Don't hesitate to look up to discover their collection of tankards hanging from the ceiling.
📍 Address: Rue de la Cayenne 7, 50480 Sainte-Mère-Église, France
Eating at the Biscuiterie de Sainte-Mère-Église Restaurant
The skydiver has made a lasting impression on this small Norman village, and it's only natural that this biscuit shop has transformed him into a delicious shortbread cookie. In addition to their grocery, they have a bright restaurant where they serve local and seasonal dishes.
📍 Address: Rue Division Leclerc 5, 50480 Sainte-Mère-Église, France
Sainte-Mère-Église is a must-see to include in your Normandy D-Day tour itinerary. If you're not particularly interested in the subject, the village is charming for a stroll and a meal.
These few days following the Normandy landings were carried out with Normandy Tourism. However, we remained entirely free regarding the content and structure of the article. Hoping this experience will inspire you.
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