1066

I have to admit, 1066 is not a date that was significant to me before planning our European trip. Although most of my focus has been on finding ways for my children to learn about Europe, I too have gained a much better understanding of European history, culture and art. 1066 is now a reference point for me. In 1066 William the Conqueror defeated Harold Godwinson in the Battle of Hastings and became the first Norman King of England. William, a descendant of the Norman Vikings and ruler of Normandy, was a relative of Edward the Confessor, who was the king of England. When Edward died, William argued that Edward promised him the throne, despite Edward naming Harold the next king on his deathbed. According to William, Harold had also promised him that he would support William becoming King. William built a large fleet and arrived in England in 1066, defeating and killing Harold in the Battle of Hastings. He was crowned king of England on Christmas Day in London. One of the most beautiful pieces of medieval art, the Bayeux Tapestry, was created to commemorate the battle. Each year this 231 foot cloth was put on display in the cathedral in Bayeux in an effort to keep the memory of the battle of Hastings alive. We were fortunate to have been able to fit a tour, via audio guide, of this famous tapestry into our itinerary. The audio guide was perfect for our family, being only 30 minutes long and moving along quickly. We walked along the tapestry as we learned about William and Harold and their battle. 

We couldn't end our study of William the Conqueror without a visit to the abbey in Caen where he was buried. 

He had the abbey built as a way of trying to repent for his sins and then asked that his body be buried in the foundation. The tomb was desecrated during the Religion Wars and now only a thigh bone lies beneath a concrete slab marking this grave. 

We left Normandy with a good understanding of William the Conqueror, prepared to go to England where is reign would be mentioned throughout our visit.