Lisieux
Lisieux may be known throughout the world today thanks to Sainte-Thérèse, but it has origins dating much further back. It is one of the oldest towns in Normandy. In Gallo-Roman times, its inhabitants were called the “Lexovii” and have become today’s Lexovians. Half-timbered houses, private mansions, the Cathedral, the Basilica, 1950s buildings… A rich architectural heritage stems from this long history. A zoo, gardens, castles… Lisieux and its surrounding area also have a wide range of leisure activities to offer. A commercial town with modern cultural and sports facilities.
The town of Lisieux was almost entirely destroyed in the Second World War. Only a few medieval timbered houses survive alongside the 12th century cathedral Saint-Pierre. One of the most remarkable in Normandy, this is where Saint Thérèse used to attend mass with her father and sisters and where she first heard her calling.
The basilica Sainte-Thérèse de Lisieux was built in 1929 and holds her remains and those of her parents, Louis and Zélie Martin, both canonised by Pope Francis in 2015. The 4,500 m2 basilica have walls covered in impressive mosaics and angels.