Le Havre

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Le Havre
Commune
Country	France
Region	Normandy
Department	Seine-Maritime
Founded	1517
Founded by	Francis I
Time zone	UTC+1 (CET)
• Summer (DST)	UTC+2 (CEST)

Le Havre is a port city in the Normandy region of France, situated on the right bank of the estuary of the Seine River. It is the second largest port in France, after Marseille, and serves as a major gateway for trade and commerce.

History

Le Havre was founded in 1517 by Francis I to replace the ancient harbors of Harfleur and Honfleur, which had become silted up. The city was originally named Franciscopolis after the king, but it was later renamed Le Havre-de-Grâce (Harbor of Grace) and eventually shortened to Le Havre.

During World War II, Le Havre was heavily bombed by the Allied forces, resulting in significant destruction. The city was subsequently rebuilt, and its post-war architecture, designed by Auguste Perret, is now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Economy

Le Havre's economy is primarily driven by its port activities. The Port of Le Havre is one of the largest in Europe and handles a significant portion of France's maritime trade. The city is also home to various industries, including oil refining, chemical manufacturing, and automotive production.

Culture

Le Havre boasts a rich cultural heritage, with numerous museums, theaters, and galleries. The Musée d'art moderne André Malraux (MuMa) is one of the most notable museums in the city, housing an extensive collection of impressionist paintings.

Education

Le Havre is home to several higher education institutions, including the University of Le Havre, which offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

Transportation

Le Havre is well-connected by road, rail, and sea. The city has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses and trams. The Le Havre – Octeville Airport provides regional flights, while the Gare du Havre offers rail connections to major cities such as Paris.

Notable People

• Raoul Dufy, painter
• Jean-Paul Sartre, philosopher and writer

Related Pages

• Normandy
• Seine-Maritime
• Port of Le Havre
• Francis I of France
• UNESCO World Heritage Site