Le Havre, located in Normandy, is a major port city founded in 1517 by François I at the mouth of the Seine. After its massive destruction during the Second World War, the city center was rebuilt by architect Auguste Perret in reinforced concrete.
This modern, functional urban plan earned the city center UNESCO World Heritage status in 2005. The architecture is characterized by clean lines and harmonious volumes.
A resolutely maritime city, it is home to the France's second-largest port (Grand Port Maritime du Havre) and opens onto the sea with a long pebble beach.
Not-to-be-missed landmarks include the Église Saint-Joseph (a memorial with a lighthouse-shaped roof), the Musée d'Art Moderne André Malraux (MuMa) for its Impressionist collections, and the Volcan (designed by Oscar Niemeyer).
The town is also famous for the Transat Jacques Vabre sailing event.
