Normandy is a region of France that has always been steeped in history. From the Viking raids at the end of the 8th century, to the Norman conquest of England in 1066 and the D-Day landings of 1944, Normandy has long played an outsized role in European history. But you don't have to be a history buff to fully enjoy the landmarks, museums and perhaps collectible items found here! For those that like all their antiques and history crammed into one area, a visit to the Quartier des Antiquaires de Rouen is an absolute must. Rouen is the capital of Normandy and is the third biggest town in France in terms of the number of its antique dealers.
Rue Damiette, or “antique dealer street”, is perhaps considered the heart of the Quartier des Antiquaires de Rouen. This is the location where timber-framed houses, art galleries, museums, and antique dealers all sit side by side. It is located between the Church of Saint-Ouen and the Church of Saint-Maclou de Rouen and is such a picturesque and historic area that it has been the subject of works of art in its own right. One feels as though they have stepped back in time while walking through here, and the many antique stores located in this area offer visitors the opportunity to pick up souvenirs of their historic journey.
Among the stores found in the Quartier des Antiquaires de Rouen are lovely boutiques, general antique shops, vintage and bric-a-brac sellers. Beautiful rarities can be found just next door to some more general vintage items, meaning that there is something for everyone in this antique district. Handcrafts abound, and upcycling is featured in a few of the stores too. This makes it the perfect area for those with creative impulses to visit, as well as those keen collectors of unique historical pieces.
The Quartier des Antiquaires de Rouen obviously attracts many collectors and visitors with a qualified interest in vintage items and antiques. However, due to the architecture and atmosphere, it is also a lovely spot for anybody to stroll through. Even a lay-person will found themselves lost in the past, and will probably end up spending a little bit too!
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