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Église Saint-Nicaise: A Phoenix of Art Deco

Discover Rouen's architectural gem: a unique blend of Gothic history and Art Deco innovation at Église Saint-Nicaise.

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The Église Saint-Nicaise, a Catholic church in Rouen, is a captivating blend of Gothic and Art Deco styles. Originally founded in the 7th century, it was largely destroyed by fire in 1934 and rebuilt in the 1930s, incorporating reinforced concrete and stunning stained glass.

A brief summary to Église Saint-Nicaise de Rouen

  • 12 Rue Saint-Nicaise, Rouen, 76000, FR

Local tips

  • Check out the church's opening hours, as access to the interior and garden is possible when the church-brasserie is open, typically from early April to mid-October.
  • Visit in the evening to see the Art Deco stained glass windows illuminated.
  • Explore the Saint-Marc neighborhood, known for its blend of medieval streets and modern boulevards.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Église Saint-Nicaise is located at 12 Rue Saint-Nicaise in the Saint-Marc district. From the Rouen-Rive Droite train station, it's approximately a 20-minute walk. Head south on Rue Jeanne d'Arc, then turn left onto Rue Thiers. Continue onto Rue Saint-Hilaire, then turn right onto Rue Saint-Nicaise. The church will be on your left.

  • Public Transport

    The Église Saint-Nicaise is accessible via bus lines F2, 15, and 22, with the nearest stop at Saint-Vivien station. From Rouen-Rive Droite train station, take the bus from Gare-Rue Verte to Beaux Arts. From there, it is a short walk to the church. A single bus ticket costs €2.

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Discover more about Église Saint-Nicaise de Rouen

Église Saint-Nicaise de Rouen stands as a testament to resilience and architectural innovation. Founded as a chapel in 640 by Saint Ouen, the church has undergone numerous transformations throughout its history. In 1388, it officially became a parish church. A devastating fire in 1934 ravaged the building, leaving only the apse and choir intact. In the wake of the disaster, architects Émile Gaillard and Pierre Chirol embarked on an ambitious reconstruction project. They chose to rebuild the nave and bell tower in the Art Deco style, utilizing reinforced concrete. This bold decision resulted in a unique juxtaposition of the original Gothic elements with a contemporary design. The interior is illuminated by new stained-glass windows installed in 1937, with Max Ingrand designing the nave and bell tower. Today, Église Saint-Nicaise is no longer used for religious services, having been deconsecrated in 2017. However, the building has found new life as a brewery and convivial space, Brasserie Ragnar. While awaiting further restoration, its facade, openwork spire, and Art Deco features continue to draw visitors.

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