Cathedrale Notre-Dame de Rouen, Rouen

This Cathedral is an amazing piece of art built and rebuilt over eight centuries from 8th to 16th century, with an earlier one standing there as early as 4c. Therefore, you can spot very different architecture styles best seen in its three towers each in different style - Gothic, Flamboyant and Renaissance. The facade is simply astonishing being the one of the best I've ever seen, and I saw hundreds of them all over the world. It's grandeur is overwhelming compared to Rouen size which is in fact a small city. The interiors are pretty much the same as many others in this part of France with huge tall Gothic arches, fantastic stained glass and rose window. On the square in front of it, by the right tower is a plaque signing the place from where the famous impressionist Monet painted many paintings of the Cathedral in various weather conditions and different times of year. Another spot of his from where he painted, as well a beautiful place to capture the entire Rouen panorama is Cote Saint Catherine (see that review), from where you can clearly see how this Cathedral dominates the city.

In the early evening (in August) the sunlight falls beautifully on the cathedral. Next to the cathedral there is the cathedral’s garden that is worth a look. There is an impressive light show (Google Rouen Cathedral Light Show and check the hours - until September 19, 2021). The light show (with two creations) plays twice in succession. We also stayed for the second showing and the big crowd was gone. It felt more like a unique experience.