Avranches

Avranches (anc. Abrincatui), a town in the department of Manche, Lower Normandy, France, situated on the river See not far from the sea. The cathedral is quite modern, the site of the old structure being now an open space with a stone that marks the spot where Henry II. received absolution for the murder of Thomas a Beckett. The church of St. Saturnin has a remarkable gateway. The ancient palace of the bishops now serves as a museum. Lace-making is the principal industry, but there is a large trade in agricultural produce, such as grain, flax, hemp, butter, eggs, and cider.