Urville-Nacqueville
Discover the unique heritage and scenic beauty of this former Normandy commune.
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Urville-Nacqueville
A Former Commune
Urville-Nacqueville was a commune located in the Manche department within the picturesque region of Normandy, in north-western France. On January 1, 2017, it was integrated into the newly formed commune of La Hague, marking a new chapter for this historic area.
Coastal Heritage
Originally situated about 1 kilometer inland, Urville-Nacqueville's development was significantly influenced by its coastal proximity. The area featured a long sandy beach, initially dotted with only a few fishing huts. This setting later evolved into a popular resort destination.
Amalgamation of Villages
The commune is an amalgamation of two distinct villages. Both faced significant damage during World War II due to Allied bombardments, with Nacqueville being particularly devastated and its church dynamited by German forces in 1944.
Historical Significance
Early Landings
Urville-Nacqueville's shores have witnessed historical military actions. Notably, it was the site of the last hostile British landing in August 1758 during the raid on Cherbourg. Earlier, in 1522, English forces had landed to pillage and lay waste to the region.
World War II Impact
The villages that formed Urville-Nacqueville suffered heavily during World War II. Allied bombardments caused extensive damage, particularly to Nacqueville. The area was also strategically important, housing a radar station and being part of the German Atlantic Wall defenses.
Development and Growth
Following the destruction of World War II, suburban infill gradually shaped the village into its current footprint. The development of the coastal strip as a resort in the early 20th century also contributed to its character, transforming the area from its origins as a small inland village with a few fishing huts on the beach.
Points of Interest
Chateau de Nacqueville
Located to the east of the village, the Chateau de Nacqueville is a notable 16th-century estate. It is set within beautifully landscaped park grounds, offering a glimpse into the region's historical architecture and natural beauty.
Manoir du Dur Ecu
To the west lies the Manoir du Dur Ecu, another significant 16th-century structure. Originally built on the site of a Roman villa, it was later enhanced with the addition of a donjon, adding to its historical and architectural appeal.
Napoleonic Forts & Beach
The long, sandy beach is a prominent feature, bordered by a Napoleonic fort situated on a rocky promontory. Immediately above the village, another Napoleonic fort and battery command the outcrops. These fortifications, adapted by the Germans during World War II as part of the Atlantic Wall, stand as testaments to the area's strategic importance.
Heraldry
Official Arms
The heraldic arms of Urville-Nacqueville are described as follows:
Description | |
---|---|
Gules, a leopard Or, armed and langued gules, in chief 2 gothic capital letters, U and N, Or. |
1 Blazon details the symbolic representation and colors used in heraldry.
Location & Coordinates
Geographical Details
Urville-Nacqueville is situated in the Manche department of Normandy, France. It is now part of the commune of La Hague.
Coordinates: 49ยฐ40โฒ29โณN 1ยฐ44โฒ15โณW / 49.6747ยฐN 1.7375ยฐW
Elevation: Ranges from 0 to 148 meters (0 to 486 feet) above sea level, with an average of 38 meters (125 feet).
Administrative Context
Country: France
Region: Normandy
Department: Manche
Arrondissement: Cherbourg
Canton: La Hague
Current Commune: La Hague
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References
References
- Arrรยชtรยฉ prรยฉfectoral 27 September 2016 (in French)
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