Porte Guillaume-Lion: A Testament to Rouen's Fortified Past

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Discover Rouen's past at the Porte Guillaume-Lion, a stunning Louis XV archway and the last of the city's ancient gates.

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Porte Guillaume-Lion

The Porte Guillaume-Lion, a majestic archway on the Quai de Paris in Rouen, is the sole survivor of the city's ancient gates. Built in 1749 in the Louis XV style, it stands as a reminder of Rouen's history as a fortified city.

A brief summary to Porte Guillaume-Lion

11 Quai de Paris, Rouen, 76000, FR
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Monday 8:30 am-5:45 pm
Tuesday 8:30 am-5:45 pm
Wednesday 8:30 am-5:45 pm
Thursday 8:30 am-5:45 pm
Friday 8:30 am-5:45 pm
Saturday 8:30 am-5:45 pm
Sunday 8:30 am-5:45 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Porte Guillaume-Lion.

Visit during the golden hour for stunning photographs, as the light beautifully highlights the monument's details.
Take time to explore the surrounding area; several local cafés offer delicious pastries and coffee.
Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.

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Getting There

Walking

From the Rouen Train Station (Gare de Rouen-Rive-Droite), exit the station and turn left onto Rue de l'Écureuil. Continue straight for about 700 meters until you reach the Seine river. Once at the river, turn left and follow the riverbank along Quai de Paris for about 1 kilometer. Porte Guillaume-Lion will be on your left at 11 Quai de Paris. There is no fee to visit the monument.
Public Transport

From the Rouen city center, take the TEOR Bus Line T2 towards Les Docks. Get off at the 'Quai de Paris' stop. From there, head a few meters north along the river and you will find Porte Guillaume-Lion at 11 Quai de Paris. A single ticket costs around €2.

Discover more about Porte Guillaume-Lion

The Porte Guillaume-Lion is a striking monument that offers a glimpse into Rouen's rich history. Constructed in 1749, it replaced an older gate and is the only remaining vestige of the city's former defensive walls. The gate is named after a local Rouen resident who owned a tower nearby centuries ago. The archway's design reflects the Louis XV style, with sculptures by Claude Le Prince and a triangular pediment inspired by Greek temples. The decorations include medallions, sculpted flowers, and ribbons. Originally closer to the Seine, the gate was moved to its current location at the entrance of Square Guillaume-Lion during post-World War II reconstruction. Today, the Porte Guillaume-Lion serves as a symbolic entrance to the city and a reminder of its fortified past. The adjacent Square Guillaume-Lion offers a pleasant green space with remnants of an old Augustine monastery, enhancing the historical ambiance. The gate, fountain, and ruins are classified as historical monuments since 1958.