11th June Rouen

The day started a bit cloudy so we decided to have a wander around the town and go to the Cathedral. We had passed through Rouen many times and never stopped so it was a good opportunity to make its acquaintance. The Cathedral was spectacular it was started in the 12th century and had been added too in the subsequent century's. Richard the Lionheart had a bit of a hand in some of changes as Rouen was an English stronghold during the hundred years' war. The latest changes were due to bomb damage in the last war by the allies. At this time many of the ancient stained glass windows were lost and it's such a shame, especially as they have been replaced with plain glass.

We then wandered down to the square where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake. A modern church has been built in the square next to the ruins of the old church. The shape of the building represents the flames that burnt poor old Joan. There is a tall cross the apparently marks the actually spot. Some of the buildings around the town are very old and there is an interesting tourist trail which is DIY with a pre-recorded guide.

That evening we went out to eat with Jenny and Ian to a local Chinese. On the menu were frogs legs, you could have them in sweet and sour sauce and a variety of other sauces. None of us fancied them however they were served. The meal was typically frenchiefied but pleasant all the same.