Le Tour de France: 100th edition - 2013
(continued)
Next, we walk the short distance to the Cathedrale de Notre-Dame. Although large parts of this huge building are covered in scaffolding
and dust sheets, there is still much to admire in its wonderful architecture and detailed carving. We explore the vast interior with
the aid of a small guide book that describes features such as the tomb of Richard the Lionheart; the Chapel of St Joan of Arc; and
the Morning and Booksellers’ Doors
Tomb of Richard "The Lionheart"
The grounds of the Aire de St. Maclou (below) have been steadily used as burial grounds since Roman times. However, during the Black
Death of 1348 when 75% of Rouen's population died, the site became a burgeoning cemetery. By the 1520s more room was needed
and in 1533 construction was completed on the East, West, and North above-ground ossuary galleries. The wooden frames of the buildings
are ornamented with macabre details - skulls, bones, shovels, pickaxes, and other reminders of the Aire's purpose.