Town Hall Square, Avenue Foch, St Roch’s Park, Rue de Paris, Sea Front and Docks: under the open sky, we visit a city like no other in the world.
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© Philippe Breard
Let's start our visit
Town Hall Square
Not to be missed and a true gem of the reconstructed centre, the square dates back to 1950. This public space is made of gardens and pools, a bit like royal gardens of the eighteenth century, and spreads over no less than five hectares.
© Hilke Maunder / LHET
Going towards the sea
Avenue Foch
Large avenue leading to the sea front, Avenue Foch is the “Champs Elysées” of Le Havre. It is lined with side lanes and wide lawns, like a real park at the heart of the city.
© Philippe Breard
Romantic pause in the centre of town
Saint Roch’s Park
The Square Saint Roch is certainly a favourite with the locals. An early 1900’s kiosk graces the centre of the park. Beautiful trees such as the American Tulip tree, Atlas Cedar tree, Albizia and Eucalyptus stand as guides, oozing charm while you stroll around. There is also a large lawn and a children’s play area.
© Philippe Breard
On the way to the cruise ships
The Rue de Paris
Main thoroughfare of the reconstructed city centre, it looks like Rue de Rivoli (Paris) reinterpreted by Perret. It also was the very first street of Le Havre in the eighteenth century, when built by French King Francis the First. The port, the call of the sea, and the cruise ships come the summer months, are its constant backdrop.
© Philippe Breard
Always in the foreground: water
Le Bassin du Commerce, Commerce Dock
At the junction of the old and the reconstructed city, the Bassin du Commerce (opened 1820) now links the island of Saint-François district and the city centre. The urban grid was defined following its axis; it offers a vast perspective over monumental buildings following one another from the entrance of the city as far as the yachting harbor.
© Patrice Le Bris / LHET
The Southern Sea Front
From their window, the flat owners have a view in a thousand over the harbor and cruise ships from the world over. This monumental housing scheme was started building in 1951 and finished in 1956. 500 metres long, it follows “Le Grand Quai”, the main quayside.