Martin M. Miles' photos with the keyword: Portbail

Portbail belonged to the Abbey of St. Wandrille (aka "Abbaye Saint-Wandrille de Fontenelle") near Rouen, founded by Saint Wandrille in 629. A convent, destroyed by the Normans, existed here already within the 8th century. The foundations of a large baptisterium found are even about 200 years older. Notre Dame was probably built for a priory dependent of the "Abbaye Sainte-Trinité" in Lessay (20kms south) mid 11th century. It is proven, that a Roman villa had existed, where the church is now. Just like Saint-Germain in neighbouring Barneville, the church got heavily fortified. Meanwhile the building is used for exhibitions and concerts over the summer.

Portbail belonged to the Abbey of St. Wandrille (aka "Abbaye Saint-Wandrille de Fontenelle") near Rouen, founded by Saint Wandrille in 629. A convent, destroyed by the Normans, existed here already within the 8th century. The foundations of a large baptisterium found are even about 200 years older. Notre Dame, seen here from the small harbour, was probably built for a priory dependent of the "Abbaye Sainte-Trinité" in Lessay (20kms south) mid 11th century. It is proven, that a Roman villa had existed, where the church is now. Just like Saint-Germain in neighbouring Barneville, the church got heavily fortified. The tower dates back to the 15th century. Meanwhile the building is used for exhibitions and concerts over the summer.