Hatfield European Adventure, Part 2, 2016: Rouen, Day 5, 09-13-2016

Normandy derives its name from the Vikings (Northmen) who settled this area from the 9th century, onward. Throughout the 100 years war, the control of Normandy seesawed back and forth between French and English rule. Normandy was also a Protestant stronghold and was the scene of much fighting between the Catholics and the Hugenots in the 16th century. Today it is firmly in the hands of the French.
On our tour today we will enjoy Rouen, the historical capital of Normandy. We will visit the square where Joan de Arc was martyred and learn about her life. A walk through the streets of Rouen is a walk through history. Rouen was founded on the site of the Roman settlement of Rotomagus and has had a turbulent history. The city was heavily damaged (approximately 45% destruction) during WWII, but in the last 65 years has been largely restored.
Rouen is also the site of a recent terror attack on July 26, 2016, when ISIS militants stormed a local church, during morning mass. They murdered the priest in front of the congregation. The terrorists were shot and killed by the authorities. This was the city in which Joan d'Arc, the 19 year old peasant girl, who rose to command the French army, was tried by the British and burned at the stake. This occurred in 1431. She has become an enduring symbol of French unity and nationalism.
Another site in Rouen is the Aitre St. Maclou. During the Black Death in 1348, 3/4 of the population died. This area was used a ossuary or cemetery. The Cathedral of Notre Dame is located here. While not the oldest , it has the tallest spire in France. Church construction began in 1200 and was largely complete in early 1600.