Saint-Ouen Abbey, Rouen

Saint-Ouen Abbey is a Gothic church in Rouen that rises 86 meters high and stretches 137 meters long, with an interior defined by soaring vaults and slender pillars. The exterior displays typical Gothic features including pointed-arch windows, decorative flying buttresses, and intricately carved doorways.

The monastery was founded in 553 as a Benedictine community and underwent major rebuilding starting in 1318 when the Gothic church took shape. The construction faced disruption during the Hundred Years' War, yet work continued afterward.

The church holds a four-manual Cavaillé-Coll organ built in 1890, still in working condition with remarkable sound quality that fills the stone spaces. Visitors can hear its deep tones echo through the nave during occasional recitals and services throughout the year.

The building sits in central Rouen and is easy to reach through a small entrance, with nearby parking available. The church opens during daylight hours and the surrounding square invites a relaxed walk around its exterior.

The stained glass windows dating from the 15th and 16th centuries blend colored and clear glass sections to guide natural light through the building. This blend creates a subtle interplay of colors on the stone walls as daylight moves throughout the day.

Location: Rouen

Inception: 553

Architectural style: Gothic architecture

Height: 86 m

Address: Pl. du Général de Gaulle, 76000 Rouen, France

Opening Hours: Tuesday-Thursday 14:00-17:00; Saturday-Sunday 14:00-17:00

Phone: +33232081390

Website: https://rouen.fr/abbatiale-saint-ouen

GPS coordinates: 49.44250,1.09972

Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:02