A central site for Anglo-Norman history, the castle holds outstanding tourist potential right in the city centre. The philosophy behind the rehabilitation project is to bolster this major site, as a powerful symbol of the culture and identity of Caen . A historical and scientific analysis entrusted to the Chief Architect of Listed Monuments enabled the main lines of this ambitious task to be defined. Basically three things need to be done. The restoration of the ramparts to make them safe is a priority. This is because the fort has suffered much wear and tear down the ages and needs to be consolidated before any redevelopment work can be carried out. Following the same rationale, the Church of St George , the Exchequer Hall, the Old Palace , the Porte des Champs gate and the Counterguard are to be restored. The plan is also to enhance the site and reception areas in order to boost the castle's role as a tourist and social venue, the link between the city and the university, midway between the two abbeys. The idea is to resituate the different spaces into which the mediaeval castle was organised. Lastly, the development of the cultural and museum activities will help to highlight the wealth of its mediaeval history. The scale of the operation means that the work will be staggered over several years. The first programme through into 2006 involves rehabilitation of the North and North-West ramparts and restoration of the artillery terrace – to be coordinated with the installation of exhibition rooms underneath – and redevelopment of the Esplanade de la Paix.
excerpt from Caen Magazine n°63
January February 2004
