Travel Guide to Rouen, France

This is one of the largest cities of France, which is, after all, known as the historic capital of Normandy. Even during the Middle Ages the city prospered and succeeded in all spheres. It was known as a major commercial and industrial center. Rouen was heavily damaged during the Second World War, but a part of historical monuments have managed to survive.

Museum of Joan of Arc is one of major cultural centers of Rouen. The courageous maiden was burned in the area located about thirty yards from the building of museum in 1431. The museum is divided into two floors. The first floor is the basement that looks more like a gloomy crypt. Here you can see miniature models of ancient castles, and a collection of armor and weapons. The upper level is the location of wax figures museum.

Rouen Cathedral is surely the most ambitious religious sight of the city. The building features various types of the Gothic style and this is also one of the tallest buildings of the city. The building of Church of Saint Maclou built in the early 13th century is no less impressive. One of the church’s halls has been converted into a gallery that exhibits photos that remind of the military events of 1944. While talking about religious places of interest, it’s hard not to mention Church of Saint Ouen, the construction of which took place in the 14th century. This is a building with strict lines in design and numerous tall towers. Inner decoration of the church is considered a real example of the medieval style.

Botanical Garden is the most beautiful place in Rouen. This is a huge complex with numerous different sections and greenhouses. Here you can see a rose garden, rock gardens, and a rich collection of fuchsias and taxa. The total number of plants is slightly less than six thousand, and it’s really hard to find such a large choice of items and bright colors in any other botanical garden of France.