Bénouville, Calvados facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Bénouville
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Chateau of Bénouville
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 Bénouville
Location in France
Bénouville
Location in Normandy
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| Country | France | |
| Region | Normandy | |
| Department | Calvados | |
| Arrondissement | Caen | |
| Canton | Ouistreham | |
| Intercommunality | Caen la Mer | |
| Area
1
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5.28 km2 (2.04 sq mi) | |
| Population
(2008)
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1,946 | |
| • Density | 368.6/km2 (954.6/sq mi) | |
| Time zone | UTC+01:00 (CET) | |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC+02:00 (CEST) | |
| INSEE/Postal code |
14060 /14970
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| Elevation | 1–50 m (3.3–164.0 ft) (avg. 30 m or 98 ft) |
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| 1 French Land Register data, which excludes lakes, ponds, glaciers > 1 km2 (0.386 sq mi or 247 acres) and river estuaries. | ||
Bénouville is a small town, also called a commune, in northern France. It is located in the Normandy region, which is known for its beautiful countryside and important history. Bénouville is part of the Calvados area.
This town is famous for its role in a very important historical event. It is a place where many brave soldiers fought during World War II.
Contents
What is Bénouville?
Bénouville is a small French commune. A commune is like a local government area or a small town. It has its own mayor and local council. Bénouville is home to about 1,900 people.
The mayor of Bénouville helps run the town. They make decisions about local services. These services include things like schools and roads.
Where is Bénouville?
Bénouville is in the Calvados department of France. This area is in the Normandy region. It is close to the city of Caen. The town is also near the coast of the English Channel.
The land around Bénouville is mostly flat. It has some small hills. The highest point in the town is about 50 meters (164 feet) above sea level. The lowest point is only 1 meter (3 feet).
History of Bénouville
Bénouville played a big part in World War II. On June 6, 1944, it was one of the first places freed by Allied soldiers. This day was called D-Day. It was the start of the plan to free France from enemy control.
Pegasus Bridge
The most famous part of Bénouville's history is Pegasus Bridge. This bridge crosses the Orne River and the Caen Canal. It was a very important target for the Allied forces. British paratroopers landed nearby in the early hours of D-Day.
Their mission was to capture the bridge. They needed to stop the enemy from using it. This would protect the Allied soldiers landing on the beaches. The paratroopers were led by Major John Howard. They captured the bridge very quickly.
The original Pegasus Bridge was later replaced. A new bridge was built nearby. The old bridge is now part of a museum. You can visit the museum to learn more about this brave mission. It is called the Memorial Pegasus.
Château de Bénouville
Bénouville also has a beautiful old castle. It is called the Château de Bénouville. This castle was built in the 1700s. It is a grand building with lovely gardens.
During World War II, the château was used as a hospital. It helped care for wounded soldiers. Today, it is used for special events and offices. It is a reminder of the town's long history.
Images for kids
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Pegasus Bridge in 1944, shortly after it was captured by Allied forces.
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A friendly robot.
