Aire de Rouen
Équipements et services
Description
Tourisme
Rouen (Seine‑Maritime, France)
Rouen unfolds along the Seine, a historic city and the capital of old Normandy. Its dense medieval center mixes cobbled streets, half-timbered houses and Gothic façades. Places of history and museums tell of centuries of trade, art and significant events. The city remains lively, with markets, cafés and cultural activities.
Heritage and history
The past is written in stone. the Rouen Cathedral (Notre‑Dame) rises with its Gothic spire and inspired Claude Monet. The Place du Vieux‑Marché marks the site of the execution of Joan of Arc (1431); the Historial Jeanne d’Arc recounts her trial and context. The Palais de Justice and churches such as Saint‑Maclou testify to the medieval wealth.
Architecture and neighborhoods
Pedestrian streets reveal well preserved half-timbered houses, notably in the old quarter around the Gros‑Horloge, the astronomical clock that spans the street. Renaissance façades and townhouses contrast with more modern complexes along the quays.
Culture and museums
The museum scene is diverse: the Museum of Fine Arts displays French and European paintings, the Le Secq‑des‑Tournelles Museum exhibits a unique collection of ironwork objects, and the Flaubert Museum recalls the city’s link with the writer.
Gastronomy and lifestyle
In Rouen you find Norman cuisine: traditional desserts and rice pudding, local cider and calvados. Canard à la rouennaise is a historic specialty found in some traditional restaurants.
Not to miss
- Rouen Cathedral (Notre‑Dame): Gothic masterpiece and photogenic views.
- Gros‑Horloge: emblematic monument on the shopping street.
- Place du Vieux‑Marché: site linked to Joan of Arc and a lively heart.
- Museum of Fine Arts: collections from the 15th to the 20th century.
- Seine quays: walks and perspectives over the city.