Serving as the capital of Eure, Evreux lies along the banks of the River Iton in Normandy’s east. Known in Roman times as Mediolanum Aulercorum, its current name is derived from the Gallic tribe of Eburovices that once inhabited the region. In the Middle Ages, Evreux was an important European centre of Jewish learning.
Things to do in Évreux
In the heart of town is the Cathedrale Notre-Dame d'Evreux, which was constructed from the 11th century in a combination of Renaissance and Gothic architectural styles. It is renowned for its 70 stained-glass windows and beautifully carved chapel screens, as well as a glass roof depicting the Virgin and baby Jesus draped in a yellow coat. Don’t miss the contemporary organ built by Pascal Quoirin, which features around 4,000 pipes.
Occupying the town’s former episcopal palace is the Musee d'Evreux, which houses archaeological findings, religious artefacts and artwork across its four levels. Highlights of the collection include a bronze Roman statue of Jupiter, pre-Impressionist paintings by Eugene Boudin and medieval goldwork. Be sure to admire the monumental fireplaces in the period-decorated rooms and stroll through the atmospheric cloister.
Want to stretch your legs? Head to the Evreux Francois Mitterand Public Garden, which combines a botanical garden with a sculptural park. It features a children’s play area, picnic lawns and a charming greenhouse filled with tropical plants, as well as plenty of benches for watching the world go by.
Getting around Évreux
Evreux is around 1.5 hours’ drive from the centre of Paris and Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Trains connect from the French capital to the Evreux Normandie railway station and buses travel throughout the town. The centre of Evreux is compact enough to explore on foot.