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Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen: A Gothic Masterpiece

Explore Rouen's iconic Cathédrale Notre-Dame, a Gothic masterpiece immortalized by Monet, featuring stunning architecture and rich Norman history.

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The Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen, a towering Gothic cathedral, stands as a symbol of Rouen's rich history and architectural prowess. Immortalized by Claude Monet's paintings, this cathedral boasts stunning stained glass, tombs of Norman Dukes, and an imposing asymmetrical facade, reflecting centuries of evolution.

A brief summary to Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen

  • Monday 2 pm-6 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-12 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-12 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-12 pm
  • Friday 9 am-12 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the week and outside of school holidays for a quieter experience.
  • Check the official diocesan website for religious service schedules to avoid disruptions during your visit.
  • Don't miss the transept portals, especially the Libraires portal, for unique architectural details.
  • Explore the crypt, baptistery and chapel of the Virgin with a guided tour.
  • In the summer, experience the mesmerizing sound and light show on the cathedral's facade.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Gros Horloge, walk east along Rue du Gros Horloge, which becomes Rue de la Cathédrale, directly to the Cathédrale Notre-Dame. The walk is short and straightforward. This is free of charge.

  • Public Transport

    From the Rouen train station, take the TEOR bus lines 1, 2, or 3 to the 'Cathédrale' stop, or the Fast bus lines F1 or F7 to the 'République' stop. Alternatively, bus line 11 stops at République. From either stop, it is a short walk to the cathedral. A single fare is approximately €2.

  • Taxi

    From the Rouen train station, a taxi to the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen typically takes around 5 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is between €10-€15.

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Discover more about Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen

The Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen, officially the Cathédrale Primatiale Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption de Rouen, is the most prestigious monument in the city of Rouen. This cathedral, dedicated to Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption, serves as the cathedral of the Archdiocese of Rouen, the capital of the ecclesiastical province of Normandy. The Archbishop of Rouen holds the title of Primate of Normandy, giving his cathedral the rank of Primate. The cathedral's construction spans several architectural periods, from Early Gothic to late Flamboyant and Renaissance styles. Building began in the mid-12th century on the site of a Romanesque cathedral, retaining the crypt. The facade, famous for its asymmetry, showcases the evolution of Gothic art from the 12th to the 16th centuries. The cathedral's interior features a soaring tower-lantern, rising to 51 meters. Inside, discover the tombs of Norman Dukes like Rollo, the founder of Normandy, and Richard the Lionheart, who requested his heart be placed there. The cathedral is known worldwide, thanks to Claude Monet's series of approximately 30 paintings capturing the cathedral at different times of day and in varying seasons. The cathedral has two doors on the Place de la Cathédrale. The north tower, Tour Saint-Romain, has a 12th-century lower section and a Flamboyant Gothic upper section. The carillon in the Saint-Romain tower is one of the largest in France. The Butter Tower got its name in the 16th century from donations made to allow the consumption of butter during Lent. The cathedral's spire, made of cast iron, reaches a height of 151 meters.

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