Medieval Splendour on the Streets of Rouen
For those who like Medieval architecture, the city of Rouen is a must. Together the many timber-framed and religious buildings create a wonderful atmosphere on the streets of a very modern city. But one of the most striking surprises is Le Gros Horloge set in a 13th century building and next to a 14/15th century belfry. The splendid clock itself dates back to the 14th century, and is among the oldest working clocks in Europe. Continue reading
Maisons des illustres Logo
Thiepval Monument
Musée des Impressionnismes
There is always somewhere and something to learn – even on holiday! And Basse Copette, with its luxury gite near the Normandy city of Rouen is no different. In the heart of Rouen’s historical district is one of the finest timber framed houses dating back to the end of the Middle Ages. Once the hose of a wealthy craftsmen, it soon became a house if ill-repute, and known in the 20th century as the ‘Hall of Marriages’. Today this remarkable building houses the National Museum of Education, and is well worth a visit. Continue reading
Samara is without doubt the most popular family attraction for Basse Copette’s guests. Children of all ages love it – and there really is something for everyone. And as an archaeologist I can say its not just a great place to run around at, but its a great place to learn something about prehistory. At Samara you get to learn something about the last 600 000 years of humanity’s history. Its not a dusty, boring old-style museum with loads of glass cases. On the contrary, its a living archaeological park. Continue reading
Basse Copette is not far from Rouen, Normandy, for both luxury B&B and self catering accommodation if you wish to visit the Joan of Arc Festival in Rouen.
Each year during the last weekend in May the city of Rouen hosts ‘The Joan of Arc Festival’. It was in Rouen where Joan of Arc was burned, on 30 May 1431, and it was into the Seine, flowing through Rouen, where her ashes were thrown. Activities over the two days include both official ceremonies and numerous festive activities, including : debates and lectures, a medieval market with craftsmen and workshops, a medieval tavern, street performances and medieval dance. As this is the city where Joan was burned at the stake, the commemorations here obviously take on a more visible and symbolic tone in Rouen than in other cities associated with Joan of Arc. On Sunday the Joan of Arc Festival is presided by an eminent person, who gives an official speech in Joan’s memory at the Place du Vieux-Marché. A procession, made up of national and local officials accompanied by children, then makes its way to the Boieldieu Bridge for the symbolic tossing of flowers into the Seine River, at the exact location where Joan’s ashes were dispersed. In the afternoon, a mass is celebrated in St. Joan’s memory at Notre-Dame Cathedral in Rouen, where her panegyric is pronounced. Other official commemorations and the “Fanfares de Jeanne” are also held on Sunday. Continue reading