Visit Normandy in 2019-the 75th anniversary of D-Day

From the Norman invasion in 1066 to the D-day landings in 1944, Normandy has played an integral roll in French history.  This year, the city will celebrate the 75th anniverary of D-Day complete with summer parades, fireworks, visits from foreign dignitaries and even a ceremonial reenactment of paratroopers leaping from a vintage aircraft.  

Mont Saint-Michel towers above the sea and is one of France's most iconic images.  Due to it's vast history, Mont Saint-Michel was classed as a world heritage site by UNESCO in 1979.  Construction on the island began in the year 709.  In the 11th century Mont Saint-Michel was transformed into a Romanesque abbey and during the French Revolution served as notorious prison.  Today, visitors can enjoy a private tour of Mont Saint-Michel catching a glimpse into the structure's fascinating history.

Visit Rouen, Normandy's historic, gastronomic and cultural capital which has ties to English Medieval history.  It was in Rouen where Richard the Lionheart was crowned Duke of Normandy, William the Conqueror held court, and Joan of Arc was tried and convicted of heresy and burned at the stake.  In 1979, Church of Saint Joan of Arc was erected in the very spot where she was martyred.  Today, you can visit Historical Joan d'Arc, an interactive museum dedicated to the life of the nineteen year old inspirational woman.

Operation Overlord, the largest land, sea and air invasion, more commonly known as D-Day, began on June 6, 1944 on the beaches of Normandy.  Today, there are two museums commemorating the history of the event with video and photographic displays and intricately preserved artifacts from this historic battle.  Located on a cliff overlooking Omaha Beach, you will find the Normandy American Cemetary. the largest American cemetery in Europe and a memorial to those who lost their lives in the D-Day landings and subsequent operations.