History & Culture

Guernsey’s history  begins at around 8000BC when rising sea levels separated it from mainland Europe. Evidence of hunting and fishing dates back to 6500BC, whilst Les Fouaillages burial mound, possibly the oldest manmade structure in Europe was built by Neolithic man around 4500BC.

The islands formed part of Normandy, France from 933AD, forging a link between Britain and France that survives locally in Norman Law, surnames and D’gernésiais, the local language.

Guernsey sided with King John of England in 1204 when he lost Normandy to Phillippe Augustus of France.  The building of Castle Cornet began around this time.  The Castle was built to repel a French invasion and has had a colourful history.  Today it houses some of the island’s best museums and hosts outdoor events.

Guernsey’s heritage is inextricably linked to the sea with a strong history of fishing, shipbuilding, privateering, as well as it being an important location for merchants.  The traditional Guernsey jumper, famous for its warmth and water repellent wool is still used throughout the world today.

During the 19th century the island was home to French poet Victor Hugo, whose house (open to the public in the summer months) provides an intriguing monument to his exile on the Island (1856 – 1870)  when he wrote some of his most famous works.

World War II was a defining part of the Bailiwick of Guernsey’s recent history. The hardship of the occupation began with the evacuation of the island’s children, and some adults to the United Kingdom on 20th June, 1940. This was soon followed by the final act of invasion and occupation by German forces.

The evacuation had a huge impact on the island, not only in the look and feel, but also in the shift in population, traditions and language. Evacuees were away for over five years and following liberation in May 1945, some remained in the United Kingdom, whilst others brought back new husbands, wives and children.

Due to ‘locals’ speaking English during their time away from the islands, use of the local language, D’gernésiais declined, however recently there has been a campaign to save the language with children having lessons in school once again. Every year on 9th May, the Island celebrates its freedom on Liberation Day.