Inauguration du Millénaire de Caen

Inauguration of the Caen Millennium - March 20, 2025
The start of the celebrations of Caen?s 1000 years of history with a popular event on an unprecedented scale. This great moment of history and celebration, scheduled for March 20, 2025, promises to unite the people of Caen around an emblematic site in the City of William and Matilda: the Château de Caen.

A historic site renovated for the occasion
Built around 1060 by William the Conqueror, the Château de Caen is one of the largest medieval fortresses in Europe. A symbol of the city?s history, it will reopen its doors after two years of restoration and enhancement work. Recent developments include renovated interiors, a new reception area and redesigned gardens, providing a unique setting for this inaugural event.

A ceremony rich in symbolism
On March 20, at 7:14pm, a solemn, secret moment will launch the festivities. This signal marks the end of the "Caen Watchmen" after a year of morning and evening watches from the ramparts. Next, the castle ramparts will become the setting for a monumental animated fresco by artist B959. Inspired by cartoons, this original projection will tell the story of Caen through its emblematic sites, anecdotes and key events. The soundtrack will be created by students from the Musique en Plaine music production class.

A festival of light and participation
When night falls, local residents will be invited to take part in a unique fire show. Moving lanterns, torches and braziers will illuminate faces, creating a vibrant and unifying atmosphere. Spectators will be able to wander around the Château, rediscovering this historic site in a new light.

A festive and cultural program
The Château will be at the heart of the celebrations.

The program includes
- Incandescences" fire show: every evening from March 20 to 22, a creation by Compagnie La Machine, featuring fire as the central element of the inauguration.
- Animated fresco: projected every evening from March 20 to 29, it will plunge spectators into 1000 years of Caen?s history.
- Musical entertainment: on March 20, local and national brass bands and ensembles will set the pace for the festivities around the Château and all the way to the University.

A collective mobilization
This event, designed for and by local residents, will call on volunteers to ensure the success of the inauguration. The area will be entirely pedestrianized and accessible via soft mobility, thanks to a coordinated effort with Caen la mer.

Rendezvous on March 20, 2025 to experience an unforgettable moment in a place where it all began!

• Free for all