Complete Travel Guide to Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue, France

Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue is a commune in the Manche department in Normandy in north-western France. Positioned at coordinates 49.58843°N, -1.26931°E, Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue occupies a geographically significant location that has influenced its historical development and contemporary importance. The precise geographic coordinates of Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue place it within a region characterized by diverse landscapes and strategic transportation routes that have shaped settlement patterns for centuries. At an elevation of 0.0 meters above sea level, Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue benefits from unique topographic advantages that influence local climate, agriculture, and scenic beauty. The elevation of Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue creates distinctive environmental conditions that support specific ecosystems and agricultural practices while providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Home to 1666 residents, Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue maintains a community scale that balances urban amenities with traditional social structures and cultural continuity. The population of Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue represents a diverse community that has adapted to changing circumstances while preserving essential cultural traditions and local knowledge. Community life in Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue reflects the resilience and adaptability that characterize populations throughout France, demonstrating successful integration of traditional values with contemporary opportunities. Within the broader context of Normandie province, Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue contributes to the cultural and economic diversity that defines France's regional character. The role of Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue in regional development extends beyond its municipal boundaries, encompassing influences on transportation networks, economic activities, and cultural preservation efforts. Visitors to Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue discover a destination that embodies the authentic character of France while offering unique local perspectives and experiences unavailable in more commercialized locations.

Historical Heritage of Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue

History #Prehistory Excavations, led by Gérard Fosse (1948-2019), revealed human occupation dating from the Mousterian period on the site of the Fort of Saint-Vaast-la- Hougue As early as 1832, A Bigot demonstrated the ancient occupation of Saint-Vaast with the discovery of a flint tool at La Hougue.

On the island of Tatihou, traces of ancient bronze was discovered at Clos du Lazaret #Middle Ages The village, before being called Saint-Vaast, only included a few homes built around a church near to what would later be called Porte-aux-dames Around the year 1000, near Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue, Néel I of Saint-Sauveur, a Norman baron of the House of Saint-Sauveur (fr), repelled an Anglo-Saxon landing led by Æthelred the Unready.

The Anglo-Saxon invasion failed thanks to the efforts of Saint-Sauveur who defeated the invaders at the battle of Val- de-Saire William of Jumièges explains that this landing aimed to capture Richard II, Duke of Normandy The historian François Neveux expresses some doubts concerning this assertion, noting the distance of Rouen from the battlefield.

For him, it was just a pillaging raid in retaliation for Viking expeditions in the Anglo-Saxon kingdom The medieval parish, fiefdom of Fécamp Abbey, is under the patronage of Saint Vaast, who never came to Normandy; it was in French Flanders that he exercised his priesthood, as bishop of Arras.

Medieval developments in Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue created the framework for modern community organization and cultural identity It was probably during the construction in the 11th century of the first church, the current Sailors' Chapel, that the monks of Fécamp Abbey chose Saint Vaast as their patron.

For Éric Barré, the dedication of the church of La Hougue to Saint Vaast, and by extension the name of the parish, would be the result of the meeting of the fishermen of the place with the fishermen of Artois and Picardy in the Baie de Seine According to local tradition, the region was evangelized by Vaast d'Arras, bishop of Arras and Saint Vigor, bishop of Bayeux in the 6th century.

While they were going towards what would become Quettehou, the bishops had to cross La Bonde on a wooden plank which gave way to the passage of Saint Vaast La Bonde still serves as a boundary between the two parishes In 1296, during the Gascon War, Saint-Vaast provided 12 warships.

In 1340, during the Battle of Sluys, many of La Hougue's carracks were sunk: the _Saint-Jehan_ , the _Saint-Jame_ , the _Nostre-Dame_ , the _Saint-Esperit_ , the _Jehannète_ , the _Pélerine_ , the _Mignolète_ , and the _Sainte- Marie_ As part of the Hundred Years' War, Edward III of England in 1346 launched a series of raids throughout northern France known as the Crécy campaign.

Edward requisitioned the largest fleet assembled by the English to that date, 747 ships, and on 11 July set sail from the Isle of Wight, making landfall at Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue, on 12 July On 9 July five hundred guards, probably Genoese archers hired by the king of France, had spent ten weeks guarding the outskirts of Saint-Vaast, but having not r.

The historical trajectory of Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue demonstrates the complex interplay between local agency and external influences that has characterized regional development throughout successive historical periods. Understanding this historical context provides essential background for appreciating the depth and authenticity of contemporary cultural expressions.

Historical preservation efforts in Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue reflect community commitment to maintaining connections with ancestral heritage while adapting to contemporary circumstances. These preservation activities create opportunities for visitors to experience authentic historical environments and traditional practices.

The legacy of historical development in Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue remains visible in architectural styles, urban planning patterns, cultural traditions, and social organizations that provide continuity between past and present while supporting future community development.

Geographic Environment and Natural Setting

Geography Map of Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue is part of the canton of Val-de-Saire and the arrondissement of Cherbourg. The town had a population of 1,712 in 2019. It is located on the north east coast of the Cotentin peninsula and home to a marina. The town is crossed by the Saire. The island of Tatihou is located about 1 kilometre (0. 62 mi) from the coast, and forms part of the commune. It is usually reached by amphibious craft although, being a tidal island, it is also possible to walk there over at low tide. Just like the large trawlers moored at the port, the oyster beds visible at low tide between Tatihou and the coast testify to the predominance of maritime activity in Saint-Vaast, which is the oldest oyster basin in Normandy. Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue is one of 303 French municipalities identified as seriously threatened by rising water levels, due to global warming. Cite error: The named reference `cog` was invoked but never defined (see the help page). Populations légales 2019: 50 Manche, INSEE 3. Leygoute, Pascal (6 December 2004). "À la pointe du Cotentin". Institut national de l'environnement industriel et des risques (15 August 2011). "Circulaire du 02/08/11 relative à la mise en œuvre des plans de prévention des risques naturels littoraux" (in French). `{{cite journal}}`: Cite journal requires `|journal=` (help) 5. Leussier, Héloïse (9 June 2021). "Montée des eaux en France : les prévisions alarmantes des scientifiques" [Rising water levels in France: alarming predictions from scientists]. _Reporterre_ (in French).

The topographic characteristics of Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue result from complex geological processes that have created distinctive landscape features supporting diverse ecosystems and human activities. These natural features provide both opportunities and constraints that have influenced settlement patterns and economic development throughout history.

Hydrological systems in the Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue region play crucial roles in supporting natural ecosystems and human communities through provision of water resources, transportation routes, and agricultural irrigation. Understanding these water systems helps explain historical settlement patterns and contemporary development opportunities.

Soil composition and agricultural potential in the Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue area reflect the interaction of geological substrate, climatic conditions, and human management practices that have created productive agricultural systems supporting local food security and economic development.

Natural resource availability in Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue has historically influenced economic activities and settlement patterns while continuing to provide opportunities for sustainable development that balances economic needs with environmental conservation.

The relationship between geographic features and human settlement in Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue demonstrates sophisticated adaptation strategies that maximize advantages while minimizing risks associated with natural hazards and environmental constraints.

Seasonal variations in the geographic character of Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue create changing opportunities for agricultural production, outdoor recreation, and transportation that influence the rhythm of community life and economic activities throughout the year.

Climate Patterns and Environmental Conditions

The climatic regime of Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue reflects the complex interaction of geographic location, topographic features, and regional weather patterns that create distinctive seasonal characteristics influencing both natural ecosystems and human activities throughout the year.

Temperature variations in Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue create distinct seasonal periods that influence agricultural cycles, energy consumption patterns, and outdoor activity opportunities while requiring adaptive strategies for housing, clothing, and food preservation.

Precipitation patterns in Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue determine water availability for agricultural production, urban consumption, and natural ecosystem maintenance while influencing the timing of traditional festivals and seasonal economic activities.

Seasonal weather patterns in Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue create varying opportunities for different types of economic activities, recreational pursuits, and cultural celebrations that contribute to the distinctive rhythm of community life throughout the year.

The interaction between climate and human adaptation in Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue demonstrates sophisticated traditional knowledge systems for managing seasonal variations while taking advantage of favorable conditions for agriculture, construction, and outdoor activities.

Climate considerations for visitors to Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue include understanding seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, and daylight hours that influence the availability of different activities and the appropriate preparation for outdoor exploration and cultural participation.

Cultural Heritage and Community Traditions

Culture Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue organizes a regular Book Festival, “Ancres & Encres”. Jean Raspail and Jean-Pierre Thiollet may be mentioned among the authors invited in the last ten years. Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue is also featured in the backdrop of the video game, Hearts of Iron IV, on a map background behind Bernard L. Montgomery and Erwin Rommel in the Steam main menu of the game. “7e édition (2008) - Site Jimdo de festivaldulivresaintvaast. Archived from the original on 4 March 2016.

The cultural landscape of Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue represents a living repository of traditions, customs, and social practices that have evolved over centuries while maintaining essential characteristics that define community identity and provide continuity between generations.

Social organization in Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue reflects sophisticated systems for maintaining community cohesion and mutual support that have enabled the population to preserve cultural traditions while adapting to changing economic and political circumstances.

Traditional arts and crafts in Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue continue to flourish as expressions of cultural identity and sources of economic opportunity, providing visitors with authentic opportunities to observe skilled artisans practicing techniques transmitted through family and community networks.

Religious and spiritual practices in Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue provide insights into the values and beliefs that guide community decision-making and social interaction while creating frameworks for cultural continuity and adaptation to contemporary circumstances.

Language use and cultural expression in Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue demonstrate the dynamic relationship between tradition and innovation as communities maintain linguistic heritage while adapting to contemporary communication needs and educational opportunities.

Cultural festivals and community celebrations in Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue provide opportunities for visitors to experience authentic traditional practices while participating in community life and supporting local cultural preservation efforts.

Economic Activities and Development Patterns

#A medieval whaling economy Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue was a very active whaling center, as there was a dense population of the then common gray whale (which is now extinct in the Atlantic). The now rare right whale was likely also taken. The first of what may prove to be many more gray whales found its way through the now ice- free Northwest Passage in 2010 so perhaps they will eventually breed off Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue once more. _Mammals in the Seas: General papers and large cetaceans. Whaling During the Middle Ages_. Food & Agriculture Org. ISBN 9789251005132. Scheinin, Aviad P. "Gray whale (_Eschrichtius robustus_) in the Mediterranean Sea: anomalous event or early sign of climate-driven distribution change. _Marine Biodiversity Records_. Bibcode:2011MBdR. 1017/s1755267211000042.

The economic structure of Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue reflects a complex balance between traditional livelihoods and contemporary opportunities that enables the community to maintain economic stability while preserving cultural values and environmental sustainability.

Traditional economic activities in Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue often center around sustainable resource management practices that have been refined over generations to maximize productivity while maintaining environmental balance and community welfare.

Local markets and commercial activities in Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue serve as important centers of community life where economic transactions intersect with social interaction and cultural exchange, providing visitors with opportunities to observe traditional trading practices.

Agricultural production in Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue demonstrates sophisticated adaptation to local environmental conditions while maintaining traditional crop varieties and farming techniques that support both food security and cultural continuity.

Service sector development in Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue has evolved to accommodate external economic connections while maintaining authentic community character and traditional approaches to hospitality and customer service.

Economic development opportunities in Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue focus on sustainable approaches that build upon existing community strengths while creating new opportunities for education, employment, and cultural preservation.

Transportation and Regional Connectivity

Transportation infrastructure serving Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue reflects the balance between accessibility and preservation of community character that characterizes regional development throughout France. Road networks, public transportation options, and traditional travel methods create multiple approaches for reaching and exploring Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue.

Regional connectivity from Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue provides access to broader transportation networks while maintaining the authentic character that distinguishes this destination from more commercialized locations. Understanding transportation options helps visitors plan efficient and respectful approaches to exploration.

Planning Your Visit to Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue

Successful visits to Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue require preparation that extends beyond typical travel planning, as this destination rewards visitors who approach it with cultural sensitivity, environmental awareness, and genuine interest in learning from local communities and traditions.

The most meaningful experiences in Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue often emerge from patient observation, respectful participation in community activities, and willingness to adapt expectations to local customs and environmental conditions rather than imposing external standards or expectations.

Practical considerations for visiting Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue include understanding seasonal variations in weather and activity availability, respecting local customs and social protocols, and supporting community-based economic activities that contribute to cultural preservation and sustainable development.

The rewards of visiting Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue extend far beyond the duration of your stay, as the insights gained from experiencing authentic traditional culture often influence perspectives and values long after returning home, providing new understanding of human potential and community cooperation.