Rouen, France Guide & Hotel Reservations from Cheap Hotels Worldwide

Rouen , the capital of upper Normandy in France, is one of the country's most sacred and ancient sites.

The city boasts of magnificent Gothic architecture and charming homes yet still exudes a bustling metropolitan feel. Rouen is the fifth largest port in France and is home to approximately 500,000 people.

Located on the Seine River, Rouen's wealth and power is primarily based on its wool industry and its convenient location on the river. In the 9th Century, William the Conqueror established a residence and in 1431 Joan of Arc was burned at the stake in Rouen.

During World War II, Rouen was half-destroyed by Allied bombers however, many of the historic monuments remained intact.

Rouen tourists can look forward to exploring its cobblestone streets lined with countless museums and ancient architecture. Rouen is known as the "City of a Hundred Spires" and with good reason because many of its important monuments are churches. While visiting Rouen, a trip to the Cathédrale Notre-Dame, erected in 1876, is a necessity.

Soak in some Rouen history and take a tour of the castle where Joan of Arc was held prisoner and tried. Later, visit the original site where she was executed at the Église Jeanne d'Arc (Joan of Arc Church). Enter one of France's cultural mainstays by visiting the Musée des Beaux-Arts (Fine arts museum) with its collection of paintings and sculptures by artists such as: Degas, Monet, and Renoir.

Stroll down Rouen's most famous street, Rue du Gros-Horloge, and view a giant Renaissance clock built in 1527, the Gros-Horloge. This street is also famous for its half-timber houses and fashionable shops.

After a long day of shopping and sightseeing, rest your weary feet at one of the many fine hotels in Rouen. Accommodations of any choice can be found throughout Rouen, from basic bed-and-breakfasts to luxurious hotels.