Rouen City Guide
Rouen is set over the banks of the River Seine, and is the Capital of Normandy, established by the Celts. Rouen is famous for being the scene of Joan of Arc's trial and execution. The historic Old City (mostly restored) is on the Right Bank. Rouen is also the capital of the Upper Normandy region, and is a lively city, with plenty of bars, cafés and restaurants to relax in!
Rouen is just over 1 hour from Paris by train.
What to do and see in and around Rouen
Musée des Beaux Arts
The Musée des Beaux Arts (Museum of Fine Arts) in Rouen is one of the best museums in France outside Paris. It contains a large collection of French works from the Medieval period to the present day, as well as a collection of 16th century Russian icons, and other works from all over Europe. Highlights of the collection include works by David, Monet, Caravaggio, and Rubens.
Notre Dame Cathedral
The Cathedral is in the heart of Medieval Rouen, on the right bank of the Seine. The Gothic Cathedral dates back to 12th century. Monet painted the facade of the Cathedral during his time in Rouen. Behind the Cathedral are the ruins of the Archbishop's Palace which is where Joan of Arc's trial took place in 1431.
Place de Vieux Marché
Northwest of the Cathedral is the Place de Vieux Marché. The Place has a large 20 metre high cross in the centre marking where Joan of Arc was tied to the stake and burnt in 1431. The Place is surrounded by old timbered houses, many of which are now restaurants.
Musée Jeanne-d'Arc (Joan of Arc Museum)
On the Place de Vieux Marchéis a small museum dedicated to Joan of Arc. The museum traces the life and martyrdom of Joan of Arc, including her death in Rouen. The museum also has a small library on the subject.
Rue de Gros Horloge
Between Rouen Cathedral and Place de Vieux Marché is the Rue de Gros Horloge - literally the street of the Big Clock. This is one of the busiest streets in Rouen, and home to the famous one-handed clock - Gros Horloge - which has been located in the street since 1529.
Musée de la Céramique
Rouen was known as a centre for reddish earthern pottery known as faïence. The museum has an excellent collection of faïence from the local area, alongside Chinese and Japanese ceramics and tiles, and plates made during the French Revolution.
Tour Jeanne d'Arc (Joan of Arc Tower)
Tour Jeanne d'Arc was originally part of a 13th century castle, and is the only one remaining of 7 towers. Local legend says that Joan of Arc was tortured in the tower, and imprisoned in one of the other towers of the castle. The tower is now home to a small Joan of Arc collection, and visitors can climb to the top of the tower.
Giverny and Monet's Gardens
1 hour from Rouen by train.
Monet's Gardens, and famous waterlily pond are in the small village of Giverny, to the southeast of Rouen. Monet lived in the house at Giverny from 1883 until his death in 1926, and you can visit his house. Don't miss walking over the Japanese style bridges over the waterlily pond in the gardens.
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