Rouen has no shortage of assets. Its rich historical past, the charming atmosphere of its streets lined with half-timbered facades, its numerous museums and the nature on its doorstep, make the Norman capital an ideal destination for a weekend, or for daytime. Famous for its cathedral which inspired the greatest painters, and for Joan of Arc, its heroine, Rouen conceals many treasures which are easily discovered on foot.
A rich artistic heritage
As soon as you get off the train, in a few minutes, your steps will take you to the museum district, where you will find the Ceramics Museum, which offers a large collection of earthenware in a former private mansion, the Fine Arts Museum and the Le Secq des Tournelles museum. The Museum of Fine Arts, whose collections have nothing to envy of the greatest national museums, presents an exceptional collection of impressionist paintings including Monet’s cathedral, and high-quality exhibitions. Until September 22, 2024, as part of the 5th edition of the Normandy Impressionist Festival, you can, for example, discover the latest works by David Hockney, the most Norman of British artists! A little further away, the Le Secq des Tournelles museum exhibits the largest collection of ancient ironwork in the world, in a Gothic church. One of a kind.
And this is just a non-exhaustive list of the many museums to discover, which have the particularity of being all free.
A journey through time
Many testimonies of its rich past remain throughout the city, and in particular of its medieval history with its majestic Gothic cathedral, and its half-timbered houses lining the pretty cobbled streets of the city center. The Cathedral of Light 2024 event is also the opportunity to attend free of charge an exceptional sound and light show projected on its facade. The production by Robert Wilson, accompanied by texts read by Isabelle Huppert, is a show not to be missed, which takes place every evening until September 28. Joan of Arc also left her mark, which we follow thanks to a self-guided route between the historic center, the Saint-Ouen abbey church, the Place du Vieux-Marché, and the Historial Joan of Arc which returns to his destiny. From the Gros Horloge to the Parliament of Normandy, via its famous cathedral, Rouen takes us through the ages.
An invigorating nature
Situated on the Seine valley, and surrounded by immense forest areas, Rouen is also a nature destination that can be discovered by hiking, on foot or by bike, along the Seine or on its splendid forest paths. No less than three national forests hold the national label of Exceptional Forests, and it is in Roumare that an international land art event not to be missed is held: “The Monumental Forest”. From June 2024 to September 2026, 13 XXL-sized works of art will be installed over a 4 km route. There we discover unique works in total communion with nature. Wooden giant, immense swing, “green” cathedral, sound river… These works, for the most part interactive, change differently with the seasons, and will appeal to young and old alike. A unique opportunity to enjoy nature from another angle.
More information on www.visiterouen.com and www.laforetmonumentale.fr
Main photo: From June 2024 to September 2026, 13 XXL-sized works of art will be installed along a 4 km route. ©A_Aubry-Metropole Rouen Normandy
