Founded in the 1st century BC, Bayeux was part of the Roman Empire's coastal defense. During the Middle Ages, the town was repeatedly sacked and pillaged, be it by 9th century vikings or 15th century English kings. During the Battle of Normandy, Bayeux was the first city to be liberated, and fortunately saw little damage as most German forces were relocated to Caen. Today, this historic center is still lined by charming stone or timbered-framed houses, watched over by the striking 11th century Bayeux Cathedral. Its modern history is also preserved, with the Memorial Museum of the Battle of Normandy, the Bayeux War Cemetery (the largest of its kind in Normandy), and the Memorial des Reporters all remembering the fallen. But the town's main attraction is undoubtedly the UNESCO-listed Bayeux Tapestry, which depicts the Norman conquest of England through seventy scenes spanning 70 metres (230 ft) of embroidery.