A 7-ton bell stands on the esplanade of the Basilique Notre-Dame, near the cemetery—not inside the church: because of its weight, it was not installed in the basilica. It was installed in 1892 in honour of Cardinal Thomas; it rings on Saturdays and Mondays. This detail helps put Bonsecours into perspective as a destination: alongside sacred architecture, visitors can explore archaeological remains, a distinctive monument to Joan of Arc and views of Rouen.

Basilica and Monument to Joan of Arc

The Basilique Notre-Dame stands at a pilgrimage site dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is one of the first churches in France to have been built in the Neo-Gothic style. Neo-Gothic refers to the later revival of Gothic architectural forms; this adds an architectural perspective to the site’s significance as a place of pilgrimage. The Basilique Notre-Dame and its surrounding railings were fully protected as historic monuments by decree of 24 August 2004.

The Monument to Joan of Arc stands on the esplanade of the Basilique Notre-Dame de Bonsecours and overlooks the Seine Valley. It was built in Bonsecours because there was not enough space for it in Rouen. Inside is a two-metre-high statue of Saint Joan of Arc, created by sculptor Louis Ernest Barrias. The monument’s origins and the artwork itself are both part of its story.

Archaeological remains at Côte Sainte-Catherine

The archaeological site of Côte Sainte-Catherine offers another perspective. It lies partly within the commune of Bonsecours and was listed as a historic monument by decree of 14 January 1993. Its remains include the Priory of Saint-Michel, the Abbey of la Trinité du Mont, also known as Sainte-Catherine, and the old and new forts of Sainte-Catherine. These remains therefore include both religious sites and forts—historical subjects distinct from the basilica and the Monument to Joan of Arc.

Walks, panoramic views and music

The surviving section of the Chemin du tramway is now used for walks in Bonsecours. Colline Sainte-Catherine – Panorama de Rouen offers an uninterrupted view of Rouen and both banks of the Seine. These are different options for your outing: a walk along a preserved route or a panorama overlooking the city and both riverbanks.

Music is also part of the public cultural programme: the École Municipale de Musique offers audiences numerous concerts, shows and performances. If you would like to include a performance in your trip, check the programme and dates for your stay.

Basilica opening hours

The Basilique Notre-Dame is open continuously from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Saturday, and from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sundays. Check the opening hours again before you arrive if you are planning a visit to the church.

Discover more destinations: Saint-Crespin, Auffay, Canteleu, Gournay-En-Bray, Rosay, Ingouville, Luneray, Mailleraye Sur Seine.

For the broader travel guide: Seine-Maritime.