France
Joan of Arc, the Gros Horloge and 8 free museums!
Joan of Arc plays a major role in Rouen, today we will visit among other places the many sites in the city that have been important in the life of this historical figure. The Gros Horloge is also worth a visit and don't forget to visit one of the 8 free museums.
Historial Jeanne d'Arc
Start your day at the Jeanne d'Arc Museum in the former archiepiscopal palace. The audio guide leads you from one room to another. You also walk through the life of Jeanne d'Arc. The nice visual effects make the journey pleasant and engaging.
The stake of Joan of Arc
In the Place du Vieux Marché, you will find the church of Joan of Arc. This modern church in the middle of the square is close to the spot where Joan of Arc lost her life at the stake on May 30, 1431. The exact location is marked by a large cross.
Take a small detour to Place de La Pucelle, one of the cozy squares in the city.
Take a look at the Gros Horloge
Be sure to visit the Gros Horloge, an archway over the street with the clock from 1527 in the middle. Walk under the arch and be sure to look up. Inside, you can not only admire the clock but also climb the belfry for a beautiful view of the city.
War is never far away
Walk along the courthouse / parliament of Normandy, where you can still see the bullet holes in the walls from World War II. To take a moment of silence.
For the sweet tooth: macarons and chocolate
Don't forget to buy macarons at Les macarons de grand’mere Auzou - Rue des Cames 69. You will also find the ‘tears of Joan of Arc’, almonds coated in chocolate.
Choose from the 8 free museums in the museum district
In the museum district, you can visit 8 museums for free. Visit the Museum Beaux-arts or a museum about wrought iron art in a former church (Musée Le Secp des Tannelles) (see photo), but you can also go to the Natural History Museum or Musée des Antiquités, Musée de la céramique, … You will definitely find something interesting.
Donjon
Just outside the center, you will find the donjon of Rouen where Joan of Arc was imprisoned and tortured.
Panorama XXL
On the banks of the Seine, you will find Panorama XXL. Here, you are immersed in a 360°, all-around panorama. We admired the projection of Monet's paintings over the cathedral of Rouen through the 4 seasons. Ideal for when the weather isn't so great.
