Le Havre

Le Havre is a city in Normandy, northern France, on the English Channel, at the mouth of the Seine.

History

The city was founded in 1517, when it was named Franciscopolis after Francis I of France, and subsequently named Le Havre-de-Grâce (hence Havre de Grace, Maryland). Le Havre simply means the harbour or the port. Its construction was ordered to replace the ancient harbours of Honfleur and Harfleur whose utility had decreased due to silting. The history of the city is inextricably linked to its harbour. In the 18th century, as trade from the West Indies was added to that of France and Europe, Le Havre began to grow. During the 19th century, it became an industrial center.

Related Topics:
1517 - Francis I of France - Havre de Grace, Maryland - Honfleur - Harfleur - West Indies

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The city was devastated during the Battle of Normandy : 5,000 people were killed and 12,000 homes were totally destroyed. The center was rebuilt in modernist style by Auguste Perret. It was designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2005.

Related Topics:
Battle of Normandy - Modernist - Auguste Perret - UNESCO World Heritage Sites - 2005

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