Palais de justice de Rouen

The Palais de justice de Rouen is a courthouse with Gothic architecture and Renaissance elements, rising in the heart of the city. The building displays elaborate stone facades, ornate windows, and carved details that run throughout its exterior.

Construction took place between 1499 and 1507, initially serving as the seat of the Échiquier de Normandie. In 1515 it became the seat of the Parliament of Normandy under King François I.

The building contains the Maison Sublime, a medieval Jewish synagogue whose remains lie hidden beneath the east wing. This hidden chamber tells the story of the Jewish community that once lived in Rouen.

The building is located on Rue aux Juifs and still functions as an active courthouse, so visits are possible but during limited times. Plan your visit in advance since parts of the building may not be open to the public when legal proceedings are underway.

The west wing was completed in 1508 and displays Gothic features that blend elements from different construction phases. This mixing makes it a rare example of how building techniques evolved between medieval and Renaissance periods.