The Best of Historical Rouen
While working with local guides in Bayeux and Caen, they informed me that no visit to Normandy is complete without exploring Rouen. After all, Rouen is the capital city of Normandy. I conducted my usual research and soon booked a two-hour train from Bayeux to Rouen. I spent four full days exploring the city and I now know why the city is known as “the city with a hundred bells chiming in the air.” Rouen is located on the river Seine and is a one and half hour train ride from Paris Saint-Lazare station. Once I arrived and got settled in my apartment, I headed to Notre Dame Cathedral.
Notre-Dame Cathedral
The cathedral is located in the heart of the city’s historic center. Construction of the cathedral began in the 12th century and unfortunately was damaged during World War II. When I arrived, I was immediately struck by the cathedra’s massive size and the impressive center spire that reaches up to the heavens. The spire of the cathedral is an amazing 495 feet. Wow!
The cathedral is also the resting place of an organ of King Richard I, or Richard the Lionheart. Richard died in 1199 and his heart was embalmed and buried in Notre Dame Cathedral. The rest of his body was buried in Fontevraud Abbey.
Timber-Framed Houses
Something you will notice when you visit the city is the thousands of old timber-framed houses. The tourist office staff informed me that there are over 2,000 of these types of medieval-style homes in Rouen. Many of them date back to the 14th century and are still standing today.
Saint-Maclou Church
Rouen is famous for its cathedrals and Saint-Maclou Church is definitely worth a visit. The exterior of the church is stunning and it is surrounded by quaint timber-framed buildings dating back centuries. Construction of the cathedral began in 1436 and was completed in 1521. The church is considered one of the best examples of the Flamboyant style of Gothic architecture in France.
Old Market Square
A location in the city you will want to ensure you visit is Old Market Square. The square dates back centuries and it is a good locations with several food options. The city enlarged the square in the 19th century, and only a few times remain of the old medeiveal square. With so many food and drink options in the square, I highly recommend making reservations in advance at La Couronne. La Couronne dates back to 1345 and it is the oldest fuctionining inn in France.
In the square you will encounter a large cross. The cross marks the spot where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake on the 30th of May 1431. Joan was betrayed to the English forces that occupied Rouen at the time and after her capture, the English soon sentenced her to death.
World Travelers Today’s Video on Rouen
The Great Clock
The Great Clock is a must see when in the city. In 2006, the city of Rouen restored this 14th century masterpiece. The belfy houses the bells of the city and it is also one of the oldest clock mechanisms in Europe. I recommend you get up early to take some great pictures of the clock with Notre Dame Cathedral in the back ground. There are also plenty of shops and restaurants in the area.
Aux Delices Normands
Just outside the city is Aux Delices Normands, which was recently crowned as France’s Best Bakery. The bakery is located in Franqueville-Saint-Pierie. I highly recommend you add this spot to your itinerary.
I hope this information along with my travel video has helped you in planning your trip to Normandy. If you still need assistance or would like a custom-designed experience to Normandy, contact me by selecting the button below to set up a complimentary call. Thanks for stopping by and don’t forget to spread some joy when you travel.
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