Cany-Barville is a commune in the Seine-Maritime department in the Normandy region in northern France. It is located in the Pays de Caux about 25 miles (40 km) southwest of Dieppe. The commune has a population of about 3,000 people.
The French word "Caux" can mean lime, calcium carbonate, in the Norman language. It is pronounced as "koh". The word "Caux" is also the name of a region in Normandy, France. The Pays de Caux is a limestone plateau that is famous for its rolling hills, apple orchards, and windmills. The name of the region is derived from the Celtic tribe that lived there in ancient times, the Caletes. There are also several towns and villages in France named Caux. For example, Caudebec-en-Caux.
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Cany-Barville, once a hub for farming and light industry, is located along the shores of the river Durdent. While many farms remain active today, the light industries have since vanished.
The town has a long history, dating back to the Gallo-Roman period. The town was later an important center for the production of salt.
Cany-Barville historically prospered due to individuals and goods landing in Le Havre and subsequently traveling by road (initially via horse and carriage) to Paris or northwards. Cany-Barville served as a pit stop where travelers could rejuvenate and dine before continuing their journey.
The town is quaint, centered around a single main street. However, this street bustles with shops, restaurants, and inns, always brimming with energy as visitors from both nearby regions and farther afield frequent it.
The most notable landmark in Cany-Barville is the Château de Cany, a 17th-century Renaissance castle built by Pierre the Mariner. The castle is now a private residence, but it is open to the public for tours in July and August.
Other places of interest in Cany-Barville include the 16th-century church of Saint-Pierre, 17th-century the town hall, and the market square. The town also has a museum dedicated to the history of the region.
For over 350 years, Cany-Barville has consistently hosted a farmers' market every Monday morning. Originally, it was a genuine farmers' market where both agricultural produce and livestock were available for purchase. While livestock is no longer sold today, visitors can still buy farm-fresh produce along with a variety of other goods.
Cany-Barville is a popular tourist destination, especially in the summer months. The town is well-known for its beautiful countryside and its many walking and cycling trails. Cany-Barville is also a good base for exploring the rest of the Pays de Caux region.
The Caniel Lake, near Cany-Barville, is a hub for various leisure activities like sailing and canoeing. Additionally, a leisure park beside the lake is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
The inhabitants of Cany-Barville are called the Canycais and the Canycaises. Here are some last views of the town and its surroundings:
Conclusion
Cany-Barville might not be your primary destination, but if you find yourself nearby, the town's charm and vibrancy are worth experiencing. Strolling through the town and exploring its historical sights can make for a delightful day. And if you visit on a Monday morning, regardless of the time of year, you'll witness the town bustling with crowds due to its market.