Bonjour, explorers! Flat Stanley Brayden here, and today we stepped back in time in the amazing city of Rouen. We saw giant clocks, beautiful cathedrals, and learned about a real-life hero—Joan of Arc. Let’s go on this adventure together!
Morning Walking Tour: Old Town Rouen
Our day began with a stroll through Rouen’s old town. The streets were lined with colorful half-timbered houses, and every corner had a story. Our guide pointed out hidden details and told us about life here hundreds of years ago.
Rouen Cathedral: Tall Towers and Royal Tombs
Then, we visited the stunning Rouen Cathedral. Its spires reach high into the sky, and the inside is filled with colorful stained glass. We learned that the famous painter Claude Monet loved to paint this cathedral. We also found the tomb of Richard the Lionheart’s heart—yes, just his heart! Kings and queens from long ago are remembered here.
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| Relic of St. Olaf |
Next, we stopped at the Gros Horloge, a huge astronomical clock that’s over 600 years old! It has golden decorations and only one hand (life was not as rushed in those days, so it wasn't important if it was quarter after, half past, or quarter til), but it’s still telling time today. It also showed the phase of the moon, and what day of the week it was. I imagined what it would be like to wind the clock and ring its bells.
Fun Fact:
The Gros Horloge is one of the oldest working clocks in France!
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Reflection on Joan of Arc: A True French Hero
Our guide told us the story of Joan of Arc, a young woman who believed she could help France. She led armies and inspired people, but was captured and put on trial right here in Rouen. She never gave up on what she believed was right.
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Place du Vieux Marché: Where Hstory Happened
We walked to the Place du Vieux Marché, the square where Joan of Arc was executed. Today, there’s a modern church and a special memorial to remember her bravery. Standing there, I thought about how one person’s courage can change history.
Lunch at the Rouen Market
For lunch, we visited the lively Rouen market! There were fresh breads, cheeses, fruits, and pastries everywhere. I tried a local treat and watched the busy vendors call out their specials. There was even a game store nearby.
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Back to the Cathedral & Joan of Arc Museum
After lunch, we returned to the cathedral to see more of its beautiful art and history. Then, we visited the Joan of Arc Museum, where we saw videos, old armor, and learned even more about her amazing life.
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| Richard the Lionheart's heart is buried here |
On the way back to the ship, we stopped for some petite deserts.
And got to see a nice looking Dalmatian. Not sure where the other 100 are.
Cartoon Fun: Flat Stanley Brayden’s Rouen Day
Question for You
If you could meet a hero from history, who would it be? What would you want to ask them?
That’s all for today, friends! Rouen taught me that even one person’s courage can make a big difference. Stay tuned for more adventures with Flat Stanley Brayden!
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