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Rouen, the City
A traditional commercial city and the capital of Normandy, Rouen offers a wide array of impressive sights, including 2,000 (!) half-timbered houses, as well as the culinary charm of Normandy cuisine.
The Gros-Horloge in Rouen
The undisputed star is undoubtedly Notre-Dame Cathedral, located in the heart of Rouen across from the Hôtel Cardinal —one of the most beautiful churches in France. It was also depicted by the painter Claude Monet in his series of 33 Impressionist paintings. These works were created under a wide variety of influences and lighting perspectives and offer inspiration for today’s art scene. Berlin-based artist Yadegar Asisi has created an impressive 360-degree installation in the Leipzig Panorama featuring Monet’s cathedral, covering an area of 3,500 square meters and standing 32 meters tall.
In Rouen’s old town, one of the main attractions is the Gros Horloge, set in a richly gilded frame atop an arcade dating back to 1389—probably the most popular photo spot, rivaling the cathedral. The clock displays not only the time but also the phases of the moon through a porthole above the dial. In the center of the Place du Vieux Marché stands a large cross atop a tall stele. It commemorates Joan of Arc, who died here in the flames of a funeral pyre.
