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Place du Vieux-Marché: A Square Steeped in History

Discover Rouen's Place du Vieux-Marché: where history, architecture, and vibrant market life converge in a captivating experience.

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The Place du Vieux-Marché (Old Market Square) in Rouen is a historically significant and atmospheric public space, known primarily as the site where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake in 1431. Today, it's a lively hub with a daily market, restaurants, and the modern Church of Saint Joan of Arc.

A brief summary to place du Vieux-Marché

  • Monday 9:15 am-12:30 pm
  • Tuesday 9:15 am-12:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9:15 am-12:30 pm
  • Thursday 9:15 am-12:30 pm
  • Friday 9:15 am-12:30 pm
  • Saturday 9:15 am-12:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on market days (Tuesday to Sunday) for the full sensory experience of local produce, flowers, and the bustling atmosphere.
  • Take time to explore the Église Sainte-Jeanne-d'Arc, a modern architectural marvel with historical stained glass.
  • Look for the cross marking the spot where Joan of Arc was executed, a poignant reminder of the square's history.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Rouen-Rive Droite train station, walk southwest along Rue Jeanne d'Arc for approximately 15 minutes. Turn right onto Rue du Gros Horloge, a pedestrian street. Continue straight, and the Place du Vieux-Marché will be on your left. This is a straightforward and pleasant walk through the heart of Rouen.

  • Public Transport

    From Rouen-Rive Droite train station, take TEOR bus lines T1, T2, or T3 to the Théâtre des Arts stop. From there, walk a few minutes west to Place du Vieux-Marché. Alternatively, take bus line T4 directly to the Vieux-Marché stop. A single bus fare is approximately €2.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Rouen. A taxi ride from the Rouen-Rive Droite train station to Place du Vieux-Marché typically costs between €10 and €15, depending on traffic. The journey takes around 5-10 minutes.

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Discover more about place du Vieux-Marché

Place du Vieux-Marché, or Old Market Square, is one of Rouen's most historically significant and captivating public spaces. Its fame stems from being the site where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake on May 30, 1431, a pivotal moment in French history. A tall cross now marks the location of her execution, serving as a solemn reminder of this event. The square also features the modern Église Sainte-Jeanne-d'Arc, a church constructed in 1979, with a unique design that some say resembles a drakkar or a fish. Inside, visitors can admire stunning stained-glass windows salvaged from the destroyed Church of Saint Vincent. The foundations of the ancient Church of Saint-Sauveur, where Corneille was baptized, were discovered during renovations and are visible near the modern church. Today, Place du Vieux-Marché is a vibrant center, blending its rich past with contemporary culture. The square is lined with charming half-timbered buildings, many housing bustling cafés, restaurants, and shops. A daily fresh food market operates from Tuesday to Sunday, offering fresh produce, flowers, and local delicacies. On Saturdays, a brocante (flea market) adds to the lively atmosphere. The square's central location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring Rouen's historic core. Nearby attractions include the Gros-Horloge, Rouen Cathedral, and the Rue du Gros-Horloge. The Place du Vieux-Marché has witnessed many transformations throughout the centuries, with modern buildings now integrated with 17th-century timber-framed facades.

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