About this experience
A gem of Gothic architecture, the Rouen Cathedral, is not only a favorite place of the Impressionist Claude Monet (recall his series of 30 paintings dedicated to the cathedral) and the writer Gustave Flaubert, who immortalized the cathedral in the pages of 'Madame Bovary,' but also the final resting place of the English king who ordered his heart to be left 'in beloved Normandy' - Richard the Lionheart. On my tour, you will hear stories of the ancient cathedral and learn to 'read' the symbolism of any Gothic temple regardless of where it is built. The secret symbols and encrypted meanings of magnificent Gothic structures will finally cease to be a mystery!
Program
During the walk, we will carefully study the Rouen Cathedral both inside and out: admire the picturesque western and rather modest but nonetheless originally designed northern facade of the building, which fortunately survived the bombing in 1944.
After a detailed inspection of the Cathedral of Our Lady in Rouen, you will learn:
- how the construction of Gothic cathedrals was carried out in the Middle Ages in practice;
- why Gothic structures are always adorned with gargoyles and where this tradition comes from;
- what kind of life one must live to become a Saint (using the example of the defender of Rouen, Saint Romain, and Saint Joan of Arc, who was burned at the Old Market Square in Rouen);
- for what reason the western facade of all Gothic cathedrals is always superbly executed;
- how to correctly read a stained-glass window on a biblical theme, as well as why stained-glass windows on 'civil, everyday' themes can be seen in cathedrals;
- which sad yet life-affirming story is told by the oldest stained-glass window of the cathedral, executed in 'Chartres blue';
- what was Gustave Flaubert's favorite spot in the cathedral, and where the 'first and only Impressionist' Claude Monet painted his series 'Rouen Cathedral';
- how 'northern people' strengthened the sovereignty of the French Kingdom with their brutal raids and why the sarcophagus of the Viking Rollo, buried in the temple, is so impressive in size;
- how a Viking longship is arranged (we will see a model in one of the temple precincts), and we will also learn how a navigator from Rouen gave his name to a whole American state.
After this one-hour (and possibly one and a half hour) walk, the grand Gothic cathedrals will no longer invoke sadness (and sometimes fear) in you, and the 'flaming' Gothic style, which Rouen rightfully boasts, will be added to the list of favorite architectural styles.
Organizational Details
- Entry to the cathedral is free.
- Meeting point: central square in front of the Rouen Cathedral (exit from Rue des Gros Horloge; landmark - H&M store). The timing of the tour must be agreed in advance, as the cathedral is closed on certain days and hours (for example, from 12:00 to 14:00 for lunch break, and on Mondays open to visitors only from 14:00 to 18:00).
- A tour of the Rouen Cathedral can be combined with a sightseeing walk through the historic center of Rouen (+2 hours).
