Caudebec-en-Caux, France Cruise Port

Lying just west of Rouen, Caudebec-en-Caux is a historic town lying on the banks of the famed Seine River. One of the oldest towns in France, the city is teeming with unbelievable historic sights. King Henry IV, of France, famously claimed that the Church of Notre Dame, constructed in the 15^th century, was the most attractive place of worship in his entire kingdom. But the real claim to fame for this small town is occurred in the 16^th century, when they created the first waterproof hat. Chemicals associated with the creation of the waterproof materials began the legend of the Mad Hatters of Caudebec-en-Caux, which, in hindsight, was simply mercury poisoning. If a charming, riverside town with deep roots sounds like somewhere you can’t wait to visit, keep reading! Below you’ll find some of our favorite things to do in Caudebec-en-Caux, France:

• Although it looks like a pleasant home, you’ll be shocked to believe there is a prison in downtown Caudebec-en-Caux, which held prisoners nearly 600 years ago.
   
• Built in the gothic period of French architecture, the Church of Notre-Dame of Caudebec-en-Caux is a must see, dating back to the 1400s.
   
• Maison des Templiers, one of the most well-preserved residential structures from the medieval times, has been standing tall since the 12^th century.
   
• Explore the historic downtown, which was a hub of artisanal goods like blown glass, watches, and hats until King Louis XIV banished the Huguenots, thus sparking the first “brain drain” and forcing many Protestant merchants out of France.