Donjon de Rouen

About

The Donjon de Rouen, also known as the Tour Jeanne d’Arc, is the last surviving remnant of the city’s medieval castle built by Philip II in the early 13th century. Rising above Rouen’s historic center, the tower once served as a fortress and prison, famously linked to the trial of Joan of Arc, who was interrogated here in 1431. Today, the donjon stands as a powerful symbol of Rouen’s turbulent past, offering visitors a chance to step into history. Its thick stone walls and commanding presence evoke the city’s medieval strength, while modern exhibitions and immersive experiences bring its stories to life. The site blends heritage with innovation, allowing guests to explore Rouen’s role in French history through interactive displays. A visit to the Donjon de Rouen is both a journey into the Middle Ages and a reminder of the enduring legacy of Joan of Arc.

Rouen France

Location

The Donjon de Rouen stands at Rue du Donjon (also accessed via Rue Bouvreuil), 76000 Rouen, as the sole remaining tower of the 13th-century castle built by Philippe Auguste, overlooking the city from its elevated position near the Seine River. This historic landmark, famously linked to Joan of Arc's imprisonment, sits adjacent to the Radisson Blu Hotel and is a brief walk from Rouen’s train station (Gare Rue Verte) and the Palais de Justice. Nearby, visitors find the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen with its fine art collections, the verdant Square Verdrel park, and easy connections to the Gothic Rouen Cathedral and bustling Place du Vieux-Marché, blending medieval history with modern amenities.