Lisieux

The Capital of Le Pays d’Auge, Lisieux has some historic buildings which survived World War II, including the Saint-Pierre Cathedral, which is one of the first Gothic cathedrals in France, built by Bishop Arnoult (1170-1182).

Another holy place of pilgrimage is The Basilica, 1929 which was erected at the request of Pope PiusXI in honor of Saint Thérèse, canonized in 1925. The house of St Thérèse, “les Buissonnets”, can also be visited, as well as the chapel of the Carmel.

In Lisieux, there are a swimming pool and a leisure centre, le Nautilus, two cinemas, a theatre, flea markets and a hospital. Every Saturday, there is a superb market, including a section devoted to organic products.