Guillaume le Conquérant Gites La Baie des Remparts en Baie de Somme Picardie
The history of Saint-Valéry-sur-Somme is fascinating and marked by important events. This small village in the north of France, located at the mouth of the Somme, has a rich history that goes back several centuries. Here are some major milestones in its past:
Ancient and Medieval Origins: The name Saint-Valéry comes from Valery, a 6th century Christian hermit who is said to have founded a monastery in the region. He is venerated as the patron saint of the village. This monastery was an important religious center, attracting many pilgrims. The strategic site, at the junction between the Somme River and the sea, made Saint-Valéry a place of passage and a very popular natural port.
The Viking Age and the Middle Ages: Saint-Valéry was an important trading port in the Middle Ages, particularly under the Frankish kings and the Vikings. This port served as a starting point for maritime expeditions and as a link between the North Sea and the rest of Europe. In 881, the city suffered an attack by the Vikings, who ravaged the region. This was a significant event in the city's history. The city also benefited from its location on the trade routes between England and France, and developed for several centuries.
William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy, stopped at Saint-Valéry-sur-Somme in the spring of 1066 before crossing the English Channel to invade England. After obtaining the blessing of the Pope and gathering an army of knights and sailors, William traveled to Saint-Valéry, where he awaited favorable conditions for departure. It was there that part of his forces were immobilized by a contrary wind, which delayed the landing in England. While at Saint-Valéry-sur-Somme, William is said to have had a pontoon bridge built to cross the River Somme and facilitate the embarkation of his troops. Finally, after several weeks of waiting, the wind died down, and William was able to set sail for England. This stopover at Saint-Valéry is significant in history because it represents the last stage before the conquest of England, which would culminate in the famous Battle of Hastings in October 1066, where William would triumph and become King of England.
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The strategic role during the Hundred Years' War: Saint-Valéry-sur-Somme took an active part in the Hundred Years' War, where it found itself at the center of tensions between France and England. The port was used for military operations. In 1346, during the famous Battle of Crécy, the English troops, led by King Edward III, left Saint-Valéry to go to the battlefield. This was a turning point in the history of the village, as it is linked to this great battle.
The Age of Discovery and the Voyage of Jean de Vienne: Another significant event was the departure of the famous navigator Jean de Vienne in the 14th century, who participated in several maritime expeditions. The village was also the starting point for other great sea expeditions.
Modern and contemporary times: In the 19th century, the village of Saint-Valéry-sur-Somme experienced an economic revival thanks to the development of tourism and fishing. Its bay, classified as a nature reserve, attracted the first visitors. Saint-Valéry is also an important tourist spot, with the arrival of the steam train in the region, facilitating access to the village.
World War II: During World War II, Saint-Valéry-sur-Somme was occupied by the Germans. In 1940, during the German offensive, the village was the scene of intense fighting. It was also the site of an English victory in May 1940, during the evacuation of Dunkirk. Several Allied troops left the Bay of Somme to seek refuge in England after being surrounded by Nazi forces.
Saint-Valéry-sur -Somme today: Saint-Valéry-sur-Somme is a small picturesque village, appreciated by tourists for its natural setting and its historical heritage. Old Saint-Valéry, with its cobbled streets and its port, retains traces of its medieval and maritime past. The heritage of the town is notably illustrated by the city gate , the ramparts and the lighthouse, but also by the Picarvie Museum , which traces local history.
In summary, the history of Saint-Valéry-sur-Somme is marked by its strategic role throughout the centuries, its importance as a commercial port, its involvement in major military events, and its cultural and natural heritage. It is a place where history and nature meet, offering visitors a dive into the past while enjoying a magnificent setting.