Saint-François Church
This point of interest is available as audio on the tour: Visit Le Havre, The Ocean Gateway
In front of you stands one of the few buildings in Le Havre to survive the Second World War bombings. Its Renaissance architecture stands in sharp contrast to the city’s otherwise modern look.
Built in the 16th century during the reign of King Francis I, this church is a key landmark in the Saint-François district, one of Le Havre’s oldest neighbourhoods. Unlike most of the city, Saint-François, though badly damaged, wasn’t rebuilt by Auguste Perret. With so many historic buildings still standing, Perret’s bold, modern style would have clashed with the area’s preserved heritage.
Instead, local architects took the lead, using traditional designs and regional materials to bring the neighbourhood back to life. The result is a setting where Saint-François Church blends naturally into its surroundings, a perfect mix of restoration and respect for history.
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