Or maybe make that a weekend?! Rouen is most famous for the national heroine of France – Joan of Arc. She lead the French army to victory in Orléans in 1429 defeating the English and their attempt to conquer France during the 100 years war. Her presence is felt all around Rouen which also happens to be the capital city of Normandy, she was burnt to death at the stake in the Place du Vieux-Marcheé in 1431.
You will find the Church of Saint Joan of Arc in this ancient market square and it was completed in 1979.
Rouen is well worth a visit for this historical event alone. By all accounts Joan screamed, whilst being burnt at the stake, “Rouen will you be my last home?!”. Here in Rouen, you can walk in the footsteps of this historical martyr. We have included some useful links below if this is of interest. In particular, the Chateau of Rouen where she faced trail, Tour de la Pucelle where she was held prisoner and the Notre Dame Cathedral, where the stunning stain glass windows depicts her life. You can also visit her monument in Bonsecours.
From May to September there is a free stunning light display projected onto the cathedral together with music which you should not miss if you are there in the evening.
As Rouen sits on the River Seine, you can also take in the sites and sounds along the river bank. Normandy tourism website says the following:-
“Rouen is now focusing its attention on the River Seine, with increasing initiatives to open up the quaysides to the public. Parks and gardens have recently been built along the left bank, while on the right bank, bars, restaurants and nightclubs line the quayside. The Rouen Armada maritime festival provides an excellent opportunity for visitors to enjoy everything that this newly-developed part of Rouen has to offer. The next edition will take place in 2027 (17-27 June).”
There are many bars, restaurants and quaint boutiques nestled amongst the medieval architecture which are a delight to walk around not to mention the ancient feel of the cobbled streets beneath your feet.
Rouen is, by contrast, a modern forward thinking city and its university boasts some 32,000 students with over 400 courses and 7 campuses. It is ideally placed, being just one hour away from the sea and only 1 hour 30 minutes to Paris by train. So it can also be a base for you to explore other parts of Normandy and visit Paris at the same time.
If you are still looking for culture you can always visit the Museum of ‘beaux-arts’, the Saint-Puen Abbey and Botanical gardens. You could also take a trip out to the famous gardens of Claude Monet which is just over an hour away from Rouen.
We were so taken by Rouen that we now have an agent that can help you sell your property or find you your dream home. We have written all about Olena and what she can offer with her detailed knowledge of Rouen here. So please, do get in touch at olena@suzanneinfrance.com if you would like to sell or purchase a property in this region.
We hope you enjoyed this little insight into Rouen which is approximately 2 hours 30 minutes from our base here in Sourdeval. We have enclosed all the useful links below. It truly is a fascinating place to visit in France.
Light Display Rouen Catherdral
Normandy Tourism Website – Rouen
