Geography of Caen
Caen, France, the capital of Calvados Department, in the Normandy region. It is on the Orne River about 10 miles (16 km) south of the English Channel. Among Caen's attractions are two 11th-century abbeys and the churches associated with them, founded by William the Conqueror and his wife, Matilda. The University of Caen was founded in 1432. Tourism and the production of steel are the city's chief industries. Caen is linked to the English Channel by the Orne River and a canal, and is an important port.
Caen was of little importance until William the Conqueror established his residence there in the 11th century. The city suffered heavy damage during the Allied invasion of occupied France during World War II.
Population: 115,624.