Granville
An Introduction to a Coastal Town
Granville is a coastal town located in the Manche department of Normandy, in northwestern France. It sits on a rocky promontory overlooking the English Channel and is known for both its rich maritime history and its strong connections to art and culture.
Originally a fortified settlement established during the Middle Ages, Granville developed as a prominent fishing and privateering port, particularly in the 17th and 18th centuries, when it was known for its corsairs.
The town is divided into two main parts: the upper town (Haute Ville), which is the historic walled section perched on the headland, and the lower town, which developed later and includes the port and commercial areas.
The Haute Ville still retains its medieval charm with narrow streets, granite houses, and remnants of the old ramparts.
Granville is also the birthplace of Christian Dior, the world-renowned fashion designer. His childhood home, Villa Les Rhumbs, is now the Christian Dior Museum, which hosts exhibitions dedicated to his life, work, and legacy in fashion.
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The town has long attracted artists, writers, and vacationers due to its dramatic coastal scenery, especially the views of the Chausey Islands, a nearby archipelago that is administratively part of Granville. These islands are famed for their tidal variations and are accessible by boat.
Granville remains an active fishing and ferry port, with services to the Channel Islands. Its cultural life is vibrant, with events such as the Granville Carnival, one of the largest in western France, which dates back to the 19th century and is known for its colorful parades and satirical floats.
The town's architectural heritage includes the Church of Notre-Dame du Cap Lihou, built in the 15th century, and various 19th-century villas and buildings that reflect its status as a seaside resort during the Belle Époque.
There is a prominent rehabilitation facility known as "Le Normandy." This center specializes in marine rehabilitation and occupational therapy and operates across two sites in the town. It employs approximately 500 professionals, making it a significant contributor to the local healthcare sector. The center is recognized for its high-quality services in functional rehabilitation .
The local economy has historically been tied to the sea fishing, shipbuilding, and maritime trade-but tourism also plays a major role today, with visitors drawn by the town’s charm, history, and access to natural sites along the coast.