Normandy · Calvados, France

Château de Falaise

Birthplace of William the Conqueror (c. 1027) and cradle of the Norman dynasty. The great square keeps raised by his descendants — kings of England — stand beside the round Talbot tower added when Philip Augustus took Normandy for France: the whole Anglo-Norman story in three towers.

At a glance

Built: 12th–13th centuries (keeps)
Style: Anglo-Norman keep ensemble
Commissioned by: Henry I of England; Talbot tower under Philip Augustus
Signature feature: Twin Anglo-Norman square keeps and the round Talbot tower
The Conqueror: William the Bastard, later the Conqueror, born here c. 1027
Changing crowns: English royal keeps completed; French round tower added after 1204
Today: Ducal keep restored with acclaimed (and debated) contemporary works
Visiting: Open to visitors (seasonal calendar)