In the footsteps of Gautier Giffard, companion of William the Conqueror.

The role of Gautier Giffard in the Battle of Hastings

This excursion proposes to follow in the footsteps of Gautier Giffard, loyal vassal of Duke William, through a guided narrative based on a pamphlet dedicated to the history of his family, which serves as a true thread for the day.

The route leads to two major sites: the châteaux of Arques-la-Bataille and Longueville-sur-Scie, linked to Guillaume d’Arques, uncle of Duke William, and to Gautier Giffard, Count of Bolbec. In 1053, the two men find themselves opposed when Duke William entrusts Gautier Giffard with the siege of Arques castle, while Guillaume d’Arques supports King Henry I of France.
At the end of this episode, Gautier Giffard, victorious, receives the lands of Longueville and becomes its lord. He builds a castle there on an ancient Roman castrum. After his participation in the Battle of Hastings, William of Normandy also grants him the feudal barony of Long Crendon, consisting of lands and castles located in Buckinghamshire, which is at the origin of Buckinghamshire county.

Organized by the association of Friends of Old Fécamp and the Pays de Caux, this day trip departing from Fécamp by coach includes guided visits of the ruins of Arques castle and the remains of Longueville-sur-Scie castle, as well as lunch at a restaurant, combining historical discovery and conviviality.

Paid, by registration only