​​This themed walk around the city takes in many different aspects of that period, from the occupation in 1940 to the liberation in July 1944 during the Battle of Normandy. 

​The impact of the occupation by German forces saw the deportation of Jewish residents as well as political prisoners. French resistance members would also be rounded up and transported off to camps, if they were not killed. 

​The city has changed since 6 June 1944, D-Day, with the Allied landings that came ashore in the region. Many of the buildings in the northern and eastern areas of the city were destroyed. Mainly during the pre-bombardment for Operation Charnwood on 7 July 1944.  

​Before this date, from 6 June onwards, the city would be shelled and bombed as the Allies looked to target the German forces. The highest number of Caen residents killed was on 6 June, during the pre-bombardment for Operation Overlord. The second largest number recorded was on 7 July. 

​It is estimated that during this period, up to 2,000 residents of Caen would be killed. Even after the battle of Normandy had concluded, a significant number of Caen residents would die of wounds as a result of the bombings. The last recorded death on 13 May 1945 was Robert Levivier, aged 16 years old. 

​The walk will take in several bomb damaged or repaired churches and significant buildings. Several exhibitions in the city can be taken in that will offer further information on the impact of war to the city. These can be found at Chateau Caen and Marie de Caen. 

​The city was eventually liberated on 19 July 1944 by Canadian forces that cleared the southern half of the city. 

​Many memorial plaques can be found around the city in different places. Some are hidden away in buildings down the side streets of the city.