Former store of Ferdinand Marrou

You’re now walking up Saint-Romain Street. Once again, the only advice we can give you is to keep your eyes peeled and marvel at the architectural gems all around you. The city is a delightful blend of old and new, with every corner revealing a new story about local traditions and craftsmanship. That’s what makes Rouen truly special! You’re about to walk past loads of timber-framed houses clad in beautiful bright colors, but there’s one that truly stands out. You’ll find it at no. 70, beautifully decorated with all kinds of ironwork motifs of a rare elegance. It’s been listed as a historical monument since 1975. And speaking of ironworking, when you think of Rouen, there’s one name that immediately springs to mind – that of Ferdinand Marrou. Born in 1836 in the Hautes-Alpes region of France, this mountain-born man rose to become one of France’s most famous wrought-iron craftsmen in the 19th century. After years of training in Serres, Gap, Lyon and Paris, the young artist perfected his skills and set up his own business in Rouen in 1868. This is where he created his first major works, and made a name for himself participating in regional, national and international exhibitions. He’s behind the bell towers of the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the roof ridges of the Gros Horloge and those of the Courthouse as well. Yet his tomb in Rouen’s famous cemetery, his home near the railway station and his former store, once located at this address on Saint-Romain Street, best capture his incredible skill and artistry. The space might have been repurposed as a tea room since 2002, yet the intricate Art Nouveau ironwork by the artist remains as captivating as ever, standing as a testament to his ingenuity, style, and talent.