Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The halls of Dives-sur-Mer constitute a major medieval building, built mainly in the 14th and 15th centuries, then enlarged in the 16th century. They are closely linked to the market right granted to the local barony. Their wooden structure, characteristic of the halls of this time, comprises 15 spans distributed between a central vessel and side galleries. The structure, remarkable by its farms, allows this spatial organization typical of places of commerce and assembly.

A confession given on 16 September 1454 by Charles VII to Abbé Hughes de Juvigny attests to their historical and legal importance. Five additional spans were added in the 16th century, reflecting the expansion of commercial activities. The building, classified as a historical monument on 3 January 1918, illustrates Norman civil architecture and its central role in the economic and social life of the city.

Located in Place de la République, in the heart of Dives-sur-Mer (Calvados), these wooden halls are now owned by the municipality. Their preservation reflects the desire to preserve a heritage linked to medieval trade, while providing a public space that is always used. The sources, such as the works of Arcisse de Caumont or the Heritage of the municipalities of Calvados, underline their historical and architectural value.

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