Bayeux, an ancient city of Normandy, in the French department Calvados, on the Aure, 15 miles NW. of Caen. Many of the houses are built of wood, and the streets have a forlorn and decayed appearance. The Gothic cathedral—the oldest, it is said, in Normandy—was rebuilt after a fire by William the Conqueror in 1077; but the present edifice dates mainly from 1106 to the 13th century. The west front, with its two 12th-century steeples, and the three sculptured porches, are notable features. Porcelain and lace are manufactured. Pop. 7583.
Bayeux,
Chambers's Encyclopaedia, Volume 1: A to Beaufort, p. 806
Source scan(s): p. 0833