French City with Strong English Ties
January 11, 2022Rouen is a fantastic city that is located on the banks of the Seine River in the Normandy region of France. Rouen became the capital of the Normandy region in the 10th century when the vikings inhabited this area and settle in Rouen as Normans. During the Roman Era, Rouen was known as Rotmagus and was a famous trading town with easy access to the ocean. Rouen was a favorite location for many Anglo-French kings throughout the medieval times such as William the Conqueror and King Richard I, more commonly called “King Richard the Lionheart,” crowned as the Duke of Normandy.
From an earlier blog post about Orleans, I spoke of Joan of Arc, “The maiden of Orleans”. She was an inspiration to the French people during the Hundred Years’ War fighting the English army. In 1431, Joan of Arc was captured and brought to Rouen, was tried and convicted for heresy, and was burned at the stake. Tour Jeanne d’Arc is the remaining piece of the château where Joan of Arc was held for her trial. Eglise Jeanne d’Arc is a modern church built where she was martyred. The design of the building is quite unique with the room resembling a flame and the church serves as a memorial to celebrate the fighting spirit of the beloved saint sentenced to death at Place du Vieux Marché.
Rouen has rich history, but it also has many architectural structures that have stood the test of time. I love the downtown area with many half timbered homes and buildings remaining true to the era the structure was built! The whole downtown is lined in cobblestone pathways leading not only to many stores and markets, but also to 50 gothic architectural cathedrals or churches. During our travels, we were able to visit Abbatial Saint-Ouen and Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen. The massive structures are quite beautiful with detailed stained glass windows and high roof structures. I felt tiny compared to the pillars supporting the stone structures!
Tour du Gros-Horloge is one of the top places to visit in Rouen. It is something you do not want to miss if you are in Rouen! It is a clock that was built back in 1389 and to this day is still a functioning clock. The details of this gothic clock belfry makes for a unique detail that attracts many to stop and enjoy the beauty of the Rouen city center.
Rouen has a lot to offer from museums and historical buildings, to many gorgeous gothic cathedrals. Almost all tourist sites are located in the downtown area or within walking distance. My one piece of advice, is to park your vehicle and just walk around the downtown area! So much to see in a small area and it is so easy to get around just by walking!
