Château de Caen

Caen Castle: a Norman gem reinvented for the future

In the heart of Caen, William the Conqueror's castle stands like a stone giant, witness to ten centuries of history. Founded in 1060, this iconic monument, listed as a historic monument, embodies the soul of Normandy and its exceptional heritage. But how can this thousand-year-old heritage be brought into line with the expectations of today's visitors? This is the challenge taken up by the municipality of Caen and Empreinte, as part of an ambitious enhancement project launched in 2020.

An immersive experience showcasing heritage

The goal? To open the entire site to the public, including the keep, and transform the visit into an educational and sensory adventure. To achieve this, Empreinte designed innovative signage

The art of guiding without betraying history

Every detail counts when it comes to creating harmony between modernity and authenticity. Here's how Empreinte rose to the challenge:

- Custom signage: made of powder-coated aluminum, combining robustness and elegance, with a carefully studied color palette to guide visitors without altering the aesthetics of the site.

- Solutions adapted to each space: freestanding, fixed, indoor, or outdoor signage, designed to blend naturally into the historic landscape.

- A unique layout: a wooden cabinet of curiosities, specially designed to spark curiosity and immerse visitors in the world of the castle.

- Innovation for immersion: two touch-screen tables with a relief effect, offering an interactive exploration of the castle's history for an experience that is as fun as it is educational.

With this project, Empreinte proves that tradition and modernity can come together to offer a new way of experiencing heritage. The Château de Caen is no longer just a monument to admire: it is a living space, where each visitor becomes the protagonist of their own journey through time.

Project manager: AAPP

Client: City of Caen