From Eve
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Donjon de Rouen.
Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.
Donjon de Rouen: A Medieval Fortress
Explore the Donjon de Rouen, a medieval tower with centuries of history, from royal residence to Joan of Arc's imprisonment, in the heart of Normandy.
The Donjon de Rouen, also known as the Tour Jeanne d'Arc, is the last remaining vestige of a castle built by King Philip Augustus in the 13th century. It stands as a symbol of Rouen's medieval past and royal authority.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Donjon de Rouen
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Saturday
10 am-4:30 pm
Sunday
10 am-4:30 pm
Discover more about Donjon de Rouen
The Donjon de Rouen is a striking remnant of the fortress constructed by King Philip Augustus in the early 13th century. Once part of a larger castle that dominated Rouen, the Donjon is now the sole surviving structure, offering a glimpse into the city's rich history.
Originally built as a defensive stronghold, the castle played a significant role during the Hundred Years' War and the religious conflicts that followed. Joan of Arc was imprisoned and threatened with torture within its walls in 1431. Over the centuries, the Donjon has served as a royal residence, administrative center, and even a bunker during World War II.
Visitors can explore the tower's interior, discovering its fascinating stories through guided tours and exhibits. The Donjon also hosts historical escape games, offering an interactive way to experience the monument's past.
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Getting There
Walking
The Donjon de Rouen is located in the heart of Rouen, easily accessible on foot from many central locations. From the Rouen-Rive-Droite train station, head northeast on Rue Jeanne d'Arc, then turn right onto Rue du Donjon. The walk is approximately 1.5km and takes about 20 minutes. No costs involved.
Public Transport
Rouen has an efficient public transportation system consisting of metro, TEOR (bus rapid transit), and buses. From the Rouen-Rive-Droite train station, take the Metro to the Theatre des Arts stop, then transfer to a bus that stops near the Donjon. Alternatively, several bus lines connect the train station to the Donjon area. A single ticket costs around €1.90.
Taxi/Ride-sharing
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Rouen. A taxi ride from the Rouen-Rive-Droite train station to the Donjon de Rouen typically costs between €8 and €12, depending on traffic.
A brief summary to Donjon de Rouen
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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More about Rouen
Discover Rouen, where Gothic splendor meets historic charm in the heart of Normandy, offering a rich tapestry of culture, history, and scenic beauty.
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