Cathedral of Light

Need information about the Illuminations of Rouen Cathedral? The Notre Dame Cathedral in Rouen is highlighted each summer with an incredible sound and light show. At nightfall, couples, families, groups, tourists and inhabitants of Rouen and its metropolis gather on the Cathedral square to be surprised by this show full of emotions.

Illuminations of the Cathedral

Notre-Dame de Rouen

After a first show of illuminations of the Cathedral of Rouen on the theme of Impressionism, Notre-Dame was dressed with a new show in 2015, composed around two other themes: Jeanne(s) and the Vikings. Founded in 911 by the Scandinavian chieftain Rollon, Normandy experienced dark times with the Viking invasions of the 9th century. Joan of Arc, a mythical figure in France, retold her story in 2015 on the facade of the highest cathedral in France.

The Cosmo AV company transforms in its own way the epic of Joan of Arc and the treaty of Saint-Clair-sur-Epte, which cedes Normandy to the Vikings. The show is free and pleases hundreds of thousands of spectators throughout the season.

In 2017, the new show entitled “Proud and Conquerors” evoked the epic of William the Conqueror, the historical context, the courage of this man, who allowed the Duchy of Normandy to become, at that time, the most powerful and modern of European states.

Cathedral of Light 2023

Two unique shows

From June 02 to September 30, 2023, the shows will be back.

Every evening, you can admire the Illuminations sound and light show of the Cathedral of Rouen. Two free shows will follow one another: “New worlds”on the theme of maritime conquests and “Rendezvous with light!”
around that of light, with real moments of interaction with the public.This projection revolutionizes the concept by allowing spectators to participate in the projection from their smartphones.

Every evening, the public will be invited to participate in the creation of a human and collective work. Via a QR code, those present will be able to bring the Cathedral to life by waving their phones, and may even place a virtual candle on the façade.

Spectacle : Cathédrale de Lumière à Rouen en 2019

Practical information

Find the dates and times of scheduled screenings from June 2 to September 30, 2023:

June 2 & 3 at 11pm
June 8-18 at 11pm: screening every night during the Armada
June 23 & 24 at 11pm

From June 30 through September 16, 2022 : Screening every night

June 30 through July 31 at 11:00 pm
August 1 through August 15 at 10:30 pm
August 16 through August 31 at 10:00 pm
September 1 through September 17 at 9:30 pm

September 22 & 23 at 9:30 pm

September 29 & 30 at 9:30 pm

Organize your visit

Sensory visitThe Cathedral, measures and excesses

This original tour appeals to your senses and reveals a little more of the beauty of Rouen’s cathedral. Feel the vertigo of its dimensions, soak up the resonance of its acoustics and play with the principles of its gothic architecture.

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Carillon - Notre-Dame de Rouen Cathedral

Guided tourChimes at the Cathedral

At the top of the Saint-Romain tower, the carillonneur of the Cathedral will make you discover, with a guide, the fabulous carillon and its 64 bells. Entirely restored, it is the most imposing in France. A unique heritage and musical experience.

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Guided tourRouen and its treasures

To meet a city is to discover its most beautiful treasures and to savor its history! Follow the guide, from the Cathedral to the Place du Vieux Marché, discover the half-timbered houses and vibrate with the memory of Joan of Arc. Anecdotes, historical landmarks and architectural surprises are on the program!

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Agenda

All the agenda