Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen
Cathedral · Rouen ·

Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen

Cathedral · Rouen ·

Gothic cathedral, Monet's muse, Richard the Lionheart's tomb

stained glass windows
monet's paintings
light show
richard the lionheart
gothic architecture
wwii damage
free entrance
impressive structure
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by PMRMaeyaert/CC BY-SA 4.0
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by PMRMaeyaert/CC BY-SA 4.0
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by Maksim/Public Domain
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by Maksim/Public Domain
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by PMRMaeyaert/CC BY-SA 4.0
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by PMRMaeyaert/CC BY-SA 4.0
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen by null

Information

Pl. de la Cathédrale, 76000 Rouen, France Get directions

No restroom
Paid street parking
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible seating
Assistive hearing loop

Information

Static Map

Pl. de la Cathédrale, 76000 Rouen, France Get directions

+33 2 35 71 51 23
cathedrale-rouen.net
@rouen_cathedral_fan

Features

•No restroom
•Paid street parking
•Wheelchair accessible entrance
•Wheelchair accessible seating
•Assistive hearing loop

Last updated

Jan 16, 2026

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14 Best Day Trips From Paris

"Arriving early in Rouen, I visited the Gothic Cathédrale Notre Dame and then walked to St. Joan of Arc’s church to admire its stained glass honoring the heroine." - Sophie Dodd Sophie Dodd Sophie Dodd is a travel, wine and lifestyle writer.  Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines

https://www.travelandleisure.com/best-day-trips-from-paris-7107764
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen
@atlasobscura
4,908 Postcards · 2,018 Cities

An Unromantic Look at 10 Preserved, Disembodied Hearts

"King Richard I, or Richard the Lionheart, was known for his courage and military prowess in the Crusades. He met his end at the small castle of Châlus-Chabrol 1199, after being shot by a peasant’s crossbow. A surgeon botched the removal of the arrow, and Richard died when the wound became septic. In keeping with the distribution his entrails were removed and buried in Châlus, in the very cathedral that the fatal arrow was fired from. His body was sent to Fontevraud Abbey to be buried in a grave next to his father’s, but his heart was removed and sent to Rouen. It was embalmed and entombed in a sarcophagus bearing his image in the Church of Notre-Dame in Rouen. During church renovations in the 19th century a small lead box was discovered beneath Richard the Lionheart’s effigy. Inscribed on the lid was the phrase “HIC IACET COR RICARDI REGIS ANGLORUM”—“Here is the heart of Richard, King of England.” Inside the box was a fine, rusty powder, all that remained of the king’s heart. Forensic analysis conducted in 2013 found that the organ had been wrapped in fine linens and perfumed with herbs, flowers, and lime. Traces of rare frankincense were also found on the ancient heart, an allusion to the Christ-like nature of the king. Despite their scientific intrigue and historic importance these are still human remains and had to be treated with respect. The royal heart was reinterred in the coffin at Rouen." - ATLAS_OBSCURA

https://www.atlasobscura.com/lists/preserved-hearts
PMRMaeyaert/CC BY-SA 4.0
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen
@atlasobscura
4,908 Postcards · 2,018 Cities

The Ultimate Guide to Scattered Body Parts

"King Richard I, or Richard the Lionheart, was known for his courage and military prowess in the Crusades. He met his end at the small castle of Châlus-Chabrol 1199, after being shot by a peasant’s crossbow. A surgeon botched the removal of the arrow, and Richard died when the wound became septic. In keeping with the distribution his entrails were removed and buried in Châlus, in the very cathedral that the fatal arrow was fired from. His body was sent to Fontevraud Abbey to be buried in a grave next to his father’s, but his heart was removed and sent to Rouen. It was embalmed and entombed in a sarcophagus bearing his image in the Church of Notre-Dame in Rouen. During church renovations in the 19th century a small lead box was discovered beneath Richard the Lionheart’s effigy. Inscribed on the lid was the phrase “HIC IACET COR RICARDI REGIS ANGLORUM”—“Here is the heart of Richard, King of England.” Inside the box was a fine, rusty powder, all that remained of the king’s heart. Forensic analysis conducted in 2013 found that the organ had been wrapped in fine linens and perfumed with herbs, flowers, and lime. Traces of rare frankincense were also found on the ancient heart, an allusion to the Christ-like nature of the king. Despite their scientific intrigue and historic importance these are still human remains and had to be treated with respect. The royal heart was reinterred in the coffin at Rouen." - ATLAS_OBSCURA

https://www.atlasobscura.com/lists/preserved-body-parts
PMRMaeyaert/CC BY-SA 4.0
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen

Iraqisurfer

Google
A breathtaking masterpiece of Gothic architecture — one of the most magnificent cathedrals in all of France ⛪✨. Standing before it feels like stepping back through centuries of history, art, and faith. Every detail, from the intricate façade to the towering spire, tells a story of devotion and craftsmanship. 🏛️ What Makes It Special The cathedral inspired Claude Monet, who painted it over 30 times to capture how light changes its appearance — and when you stand there, you understand why. The play of light and shadow across the façade is mesmerizing, especially during sunrise and sunset. Inside, the soaring ceilings and stained-glass windows create a peaceful, almost spiritual silence. 🕰️ Historical Importance Built between the 12th and 16th centuries, it houses the heart of Richard the Lionheart and remains one of the tallest church structures in France. Despite damage during wars and lightning strikes, it has been beautifully restored — a symbol of Rouen’s resilience. 📝 Practical Info ✅ Free entrance ✅ Light show (in summer months) — a must-see experience that brings Monet’s vision to life 🎨 ✅ Nearby cafés and shops for a perfect cultural stroll afterward A place that leaves you speechless — not just for its beauty, but for its soul. Whether you’re religious or not, standing here fills you with awe and peace. ⸻ For more tips follow me on Google. I have a lot of maps and places to visit all around the world 🌎 all for free for my followers on Google Maps. @Amagi.zi

G D

Google
Impressive,monumental cathedral in every sense of the word. With highly detailed, intricate sculptures piling on every inch of the building, it is a stunning, beautiful structure all around. There is a large tent set up in the front currently, perhaps for a reception or important event, it obstruct part of the front view. Walk around and to the back, the design continues to impress. There are cafe shops, restaurants and fast food takeout, pastries, souvenir shops nearby. The uniquely frrncg architecture, medieval looking town is so quaint and pretty to visit. Wear comfortable shoes as the town is walkable and all cobblestoned, it can be hard on the feet after a while. There are several other great attractions earby such as the large clock, Jeanne D'Arc church...all are must-see monuments. I didn't go inside the cathedral (not religious) just love European flares, history and art.

dUdErOck

Google
So, there seems to be a lot of Notre Dame Cathedrals in France. This is not the famous one located in Paris but the one in Rouen; and it was equally amazing. It does not matter how many times I visit one of these amazing cathedrals, I am always in awe of the size and ornateness of these structures; not to mention that they were built hundreds of years ago. Overall, the structure is in very good condition and there is always ongoing renovations and repair. Unfortunately, some of the areas, including the tomb of Richard the Lion Heart. Regardless, much to see and take in and highly recommend a visit.

Melissa P

Google
Absolutely beautiful! One of the most breathtaking churches I have been too! Walking inside takes your breath away. The ceilings are giant, the statues amazing and the stained glassed windows just wow! We didn’t have to pay to enter. It is breathtaking. Loved all the statues on the outside with the gargoyles everywhere.

DANIELA S.

Google
The church is beautiful and impressive! You can spend a good time admiring all the details on it. During the evening (10:30pm) they had a light show - it was SO BEAUTIFUL. It had history and beauty in the show and it was captivating. It’s for free, you just need to get around the church and enjoy the free experience. Highly recommend.

Russell M.

Google
A beautiful cathedral dating back to the 1100s. A fantastic part of Normandy history, during the days of the Vikings, Faults and Romans. Wow. A place of prayer and meditation. The city of SaintvJoan of Arc, of the the patron saints of France, cf.: Sacre Coeur, Montmartre.

Wayne M.

Google
Absolutely stunning and the level of craftsmanship is amazing. The care and love is very clear to see and definitely worth the time to see.

Chris M.

Google
Beautiful Cathedral. Free to enter. Richard the Lion Heart's tomb is here. Surprised to see someone selling fruit and veg in there. Also reminded off a stranger to remove hats when entering as a sign of respect.
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Gina Marie C.

Yelp
Amazing piece of history of Joan of arc, Richard the Lion Heart, The famous Viking Rollo!
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Saira K.

Yelp
This is a beautiful Catholic church in. It is the seat of the Archbishop of Rouen. It is famous for Monet's paintings. There's a place on the side where you can see where Monet painted from to get the views. It has three towers with different architecture styles.
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Boon C.

Yelp
The Rouen Cathedral is unique in many way. The church consecrated on the early 1000. The church actually completed at late 1800. This church is not the biggest. But it three tower make this church unique. In Normandy area may be the largest. This church has been painted by Claude Monet. The painting now located in Paris Musee d'Osray. We visit the museum and found it familiar face by famous painter. The cathedral interior is a bit simplistic in compare to many cathedral I have seen. The altar and worship area is big enough to host many people. It may be Rouen nice cathedral.
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Kelly L.

Yelp
It is a beautiful cathedral first built in 650 and continues to be enlarged over years. The facade was rebuilt many times especially after WWII. The area was heavily bombed! It is one of the tallest cathedral in French. The tower is 150 meters or 492 feet or 50-story building! Quite impressive! The cathedral is also the burial places of many famous individuals in French history like Richard the Lion heart! It is an inspirations for many artists, like Monet, Lichtenstein... We missed the light show... Maybe next time! It is worth to make a trip to Rouen if you are visiting Paris!
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David S.

Yelp
Another cathedral, and another place where I can probably describe the beautiful interior, and exterior. Mind you, it's not so much that it is the same, it is just that I do find it a little difficult to describe it in a way that I haven't describe the number of other churches that I visited. Still, like all of them, the architecture is maginificent, as is the interior art. However, the one thing that does stand out with this church is that during the summer they have a light show that is supposed to start at around 10:00 pm. The problem was that when we went the light show was delayed and ended up starting something like 15 minutes later. However it was pretty impressive, and certainly worth checking out if you happen to be there - and having a look inside is pretty cool as well.
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Jennifer K.

Yelp
I like Claude Monet's impressionistic interpretation of Rouen Cathedral better than the real life structure. Massive, dark and seems like always in stage of repairs even over the Centuries.. there is a mixture of High/Late Gothic and Renaissance. Fire, Lighting, War, Bombs even debris from the winds damaged the Cathedral through the years with the most recent one in 1999. Of course Rouen makes famous by the series of Study of Claude Monet on the effect of lighting on the Cathedral... How come my photos looks like one of the "Dull Day" version?
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Danielle K.

Yelp
I highly recommend attending the light show here. It begins at 10:30 PM and is 2 shows of lights on the front of the cathedral, with music accompaniment. The 1st show is about Joan of Arc, and the 2nd is about impressionism. Both shows are replayed 3 times, so if you're not there right when the show begins, you still won't miss anything. I wasn't expecting the light show to be as impressive as it was.
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Emily Y.

Yelp
This cathedral was under construction (read: heavy scaffolding) when I was here for my visit, which definitely detracted from my tour. However, the inside was AMAZING. I love stained glass windows and this building had no shortage of it. Along the walls of the cathedrals are displays showing photographs of how much damage this cathedral sustained during WWII, some of which are mind-boggling. There are also parts of the exterior that still have blackened scorch marks on it. Definitely something to check out if you're in town.
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Mit S.

Yelp
I am not a massive fan of going into churches on sunny days just to look at stained glass depictions of old religious figures, but I have to say as far as cathedrals go this place is pretty badass. I mean, it's no Sagrada Familia or anything but it is an impressive construction that towers over the whole town. It costs nothing to go inside so if you're in Rouen you really should check this place out.

Elizabeth P.

Yelp
Spectacular cathedral and history. Breathtaking and hard to believe this cathedral is over 800 years old and destroyed during WW2. The dedication to rebuild the cathedral is an inspiration. Worth taking a day trip from Paris to visit the cathedral and beautiful city of Rouen.