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Saint-Pierre-sur-Dives facts for kids

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Saint-Pierre-sur-Dives
Abb-st-pierre1
Benedictine abbey
Coat of arms of Saint-Pierre-sur-Dives
Coat of arms
Saint-Pierre-sur-Dives is located in France
Saint-Pierre-sur-Dives
Saint-Pierre-sur-Dives
Location in France
Saint-Pierre-sur-Dives is located in Normandy
Saint-Pierre-sur-Dives
Saint-Pierre-sur-Dives
Location in Normandy
Country France
Region Normandy
Department Calvados
Arrondissement Lisieux
Canton Livarot
Commune Saint-Pierre-en-Auge
Area
1
9.68 km2 (3.74 sq mi)
Time zone UTC+01:00 (CET)
 • Summer (DST) UTC+02:00 (CEST)
Postal code
14170
Elevation 23–74 m (75–243 ft)
(avg. 32 m or 105 ft)
1 French Land Register data, which excludes lakes, ponds, glaciers > 1 km2 (0.386 sq mi or 247 acres) and river estuaries.

Saint-Pierre-sur-Dives was a small town, or 'commune,' located in the Calvados area of northwestern France. It was part of the Normandy region. On January 1, 2017, Saint-Pierre-sur-Dives joined with other nearby towns to form a new, larger commune called Saint-Pierre-en-Auge.

The town is famous for its old abbey church. This church was rebuilt during the 12th and 13th centuries. It replaced an even older church built in 1011. That first church was started by Countess Lesceline, who was William the Conqueror's aunt.

The abbey church was fully restored in the 16th century. At that time, it got its current look. It has a long main hall with two side aisles. There are also five chapels that spread out from the main building. The church is built in the beautiful Gothic style.

Historic Market Hall

Halles XIe 1
11th century market hall.

The market hall in Saint-Pierre-sur-Dives is a great example of medieval Norman architecture. It dates all the way back to the 11th century. Benedictine monks from the abbey first used it. They sold their goods to the local people here.

This important building was officially listed as a historical monument in 1889. Sadly, the hall was completely destroyed by fire in 1944. This happened during World War II when German forces were leaving the area. After the war, the halls were rebuilt. They used chestnut wood, just like the original building.

Local Markets and Events

Market day in St Pierre sur Dives with the 11th century market hall
A busy Monday market outside the 11th century market hall in St Pierre sur Dives, Normandy, France.

Saint-Pierre-sur-Dives is well-known for its lively markets. Every Monday morning, there is a big open-air market. It takes place in the square around the 11th-century market hall. You can find all sorts of items there.

There is also a cattle market every Monday. Farmers sell about a hundred calves each week. They also sell sheep, pigs, and some goats. On the first Sunday of each month, an antiques market is held at the market hall.

Right across from the main hall is La Cour des Brocanteurs. This is a small courtyard with shops. They sell many interesting items. These include second-hand goods, antiques, and vintage designs. You can also find jewelry and outdoor furniture there.

Places to Visit

The Protective Botanical Garden is a special place in Saint-Pierre-sur-Dives. This garden collects and grows old types of flowers and vegetables. It helps to keep these older plant varieties from disappearing.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Saint-Pierre-sur-Dives para niños

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