Set along the Seine in Normandy, Rouen is a city of medieval streets, half-timbered houses and remarkable Gothic architecture. Its magnificent Notre-Dame Cathedral inspired Claude Monet’s celebrated series of paintings, revealing how changing light can transform a familiar building.

Rouen is also closely associated with Joan of Arc, whose story gives particular meaning to Place du Vieux-Marché. Walking through the historic center, students encounter connections between French history, artistic expression and the life of a modern city built around its past.