Criquebeuf-la-Campagne is a commune in the Eure department of the Normandy region in north‑western France.
Geography
- Location: Situated approximately 15 km east of the town of Évreux, the commune lies on the plateau of the Pays d’Évreux.
- Coordinates: 49°03′N 1°17′E.
- Area: 6.97 km² (2.69 sq mi).
- Elevation: Ranges from 114 m to 158 m above sea level.
Administration
- Arrondissement: Évreux.
- Canton: Conches‑en‑Ouche.
- Intercommunality: Communauté de communes du Pays de Conches.
- Mayor (2020–2026): André Darracq (affiliation: Miscellaneous left).
Demographics
- Population (2019): 459 inhabitants, yielding a density of roughly 66 inhabitants per km².
- Population trends have shown modest growth since the 1990s, reflecting the general rural stability of the Eure department.
History
- The name “Criquebeuf” is of Norman origin, combining the Old Norse kriki (“corner” or “nook”) with the Old French beuf (from bœuf, meaning “cattle”), indicating a place where cattle were kept in a corner or protected pasture.
- “La Campagne” distinguishes the locality from other similarly named villages (e.g., Criquebeuf‑en‑Rais, Criquebeuf‑en‑Cour).
- The settlement appears in medieval records as part of the seigneurial holdings of the Dukes of Normandy.
- The commune’s church, Saint‑Pierre, dates from the 12th century, featuring Romanesque architectural elements; it was restored in the 19th century.
Economy and Land Use
- The local economy is primarily agricultural, focusing on cereal cultivation, dairy farming, and livestock.
- Small-scale artisanal activities and a few family‑run businesses serve the surrounding rural community.
Infrastructure
- Access is provided by departmental roads D830 and D125, linking the commune to Évreux and other neighboring villages.
- Public services include a town hall (mairie), a primary school, and a community hall used for local events.
Cultural and Natural Heritage
- The commune participates in regional festivals celebrating Norman heritage, such as the annual “Fête du Patrimoine.”
- Nearby natural features include the modestly wooded area of Les Bois de Criquebeuf, offering walking trails.
References
- Institut National de la Statistique et des Études Économiques (INSEE) census data.
- “Les Communes du Département de l’Eure,” departmental archives, 2021 edition.
All information reflects data available up to 2024 and does not include speculative or unverified details.
