Evenement
2027, European Year of the Normans
2027: the millennium of William the Conqueror
The year 2027 will be a landmark year for Normandy and Europe, celebrating the millennium of the birth of William the Conqueror. Born in 1027 in Falaise (Calvados), Duke of Normandy and then King of England in 1066, William had a profound impact on the history of France, the United Kingdom and the whole of Europe. Through numerous historical, cultural and tourist events, Normandy will pay tribute to his exceptional legacy.
🏛️ The Bayeux Tapestry Museum undergoing renovation
The Bayeux Tapestry Museum, home to the iconic work depicting William’s conquest of England in 1066, is currently closed for renovation. It is scheduled to reopen in October 2027, coinciding with the Normandy millennium celebrations.
During this period, the Tapestry will be exceptionally exhibited at the British Museum in London, as part of a historic loan between France and the United Kingdom.
Why does 2027 mark a millennium?
2027 marks the millennium of the birth of William the Conqueror, who was born in Falaise, Normandy, around 1027, the illegitimate son of Robert the Magnificent and Arlette. Although some historians sometimes place his birth in 1028, most recent studies use 1027 as the reference date for the historical anniversary.
William inherited the Duchy of Normandy when he was around eight years old, upon his father’s death in 1035, in a context that was particularly unstable and dangerous for a child, as he was considered ‘illegitimate’ according to the standards of the time. The legitimacy of his power was affirmed thanks to the Nordic tradition (‘more danico’), which tolerated heredity even for children born out of wedlock, but this did not protect him from internal plots and revolts during his youth.
His accession to the throne of England in 1066, after the Battle of Hastings, had a lasting impact on the history of France, England and Western Europe. William founded a powerful Anglo-Norman kingdom, established administrative institutions (Domesday Book), built numerous buildings (Tower of London, abbeys in Caen), and his descendants ruled Normandy and England until 1204.
It is the sum of this legacy and this founding figure that the millennium celebrations in 2027 will commemorate, highlighting the birth of a figure who became a key player in European history, from Norman culture to the British monarchy.
European Year of the Normans
🏰 Proclaimed by the Normandy Region with international cooperation (United Kingdom, Italy, Scandinavia, Ireland, etc.).
Scenario-based tourist quest
🎭 Explore Norman medieval heritage through immersive tours throughout the region.
Digital screenings and popular events
📽️ Monumental shows accessible to all, even those unfamiliar with Norman history.
Symposiums and conferences
📚 International researchers and historians will gather, notably for the Battle Conference on Anglo-Norman Studies.
William the Conqueror was born exactly 1,000 years ago, in 1027, in Falaise. His conquest of England in 1066 changed the course of European history.
Conclusion
The millennium of William the Conqueror is intended both as a recognition of Europe’s shared history and an invitation to renew cooperation around the Norman heritage. It is a unique opportunity to promote heritage, involve young people, boost tourism and build a living memory for all audiences.