Monet immortalized Rouen’s cathedral (particularly the facade, with its galaxy of statues) in his paintings. The main door, Porte Central, is embellished with sculptures (some decapitated) depicting the Tree of Jesus. The 12th-century Porte St-Jean and Porte St-Etienne flank it. Consecrated in 1063, the cathedral, a symphony of lacy stonework, was reconstructed after suffering damage in World War II. Two towers distinguish it: Tour de Beurre was financed by the faithful who were willing to pay for the privilege of eating butter during Lent. Containing a carillon of 56 bells, the Tour Lanterne (Lantern Tower)—built in 1877 and using 740 tons of iron and bronze—rises to almost 150m (492 ft.).
The cathedral’s interior is fairly uniform. The choir is a masterpiece, with 14 soaring pillars. The Booksellers’ Stairway, in the north wing of the transept, is adorned with a stained-glass rose window that dates, in part, from the 1500s. The 13th-century chancel is beautiful, with simple lines. Especially interesting is the Chapelle de la Vierge, adorned with Renaissance tombs of the cardinals d’Amboise. Also entombed is the heart of Richard the Lion-Hearted, a token of his affection for the people of Rouen. Along the south-facing side of the cathedral is an entrancing collection of statues of saints that had previously adorned the exterior.
Rouen
Travel Guide
Rouen› Attraction
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen
Place de la Cathédrale
Telly / Shutterstock
Our Rating
Neighborhood
Around Town
Hours
Apr–Oct Mon 2–7pm,Tues–Sat 9am-7pm and Sun 9am–6pm; Nov–Mar Mon 2–6pm, Tues–Sat 9am–noon and 2–6pm, Sun 2–6pm
Transportation
Metro: Palais de Justice
Phone
02-35-71-51-23
Prices
Free admission; donations appreciated
Web site
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen
Other
Closed during Mass and some holidays
Map
Place de la Cathédrale RouenNote: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.