press contact PRESS KIT Tel. 0033 (0)2 32 08 36 51 – 0033 (0)6 03 34 41 45
[email protected] Literature @RouenTourisme www.rouentourisme.com Introduction Normandy, an artistic hub since the dawn of time, has inspired numerous writers in various fields. A prosperous region near to Paris, Rouen has been one of the key French literary centres since the Middle Ages. Noblemen and the middle classes from the surrounding areas alternated their holidays between the capital and the province, bringing along the latest trends and European fashions. Rouen and the Seine Valley is full of unique historical examples and unrivalled talent. 3 press contact Tel. 0033 (0)2 32 08 36 51 – 0033 (0)6 03 34 41 45 @RouenTourisme
[email protected] www.rouentourisme.com Rouen – Le Livre des Fontaines: a unique example of a little-known gem Written by Jacques Le Lieur in 1526, Le Livre des Fontaines is a unique representation of Rouen's water supply. This document illustrates an area of Rouen of around 20 meters long by 1 metre wide in a technical and detailed manner (architecture, graphics). His work needed more than 16,000 sheets kept in a wooden box which was 11 centimetres thick. Sent to the city's aldermen, this true 16th Century masterpiece is currently a unique example in Europe. Whilst this document is technical, above all, its original nature is a fine example kept within the Rouen city archives. Le Livre des Fontaines has also been used as staging for the Gros Horloge, a symbol of the city, which was connected to the city hotel where the aldermen stayed during construction.