You Are Here – Le Havre

Yet another French mug is coming to the stores, with even more cities to join the collection! Starbucks You Are Here – Le Havre is dedicated to the city located in the Normandy region of France. Founded in 1517 by King Francis I and originally established as a port to facilitate trade and exploration, the city quickly became important. During the 19th century, Le Havre became a significant hub for transatlantic travel and commerce. World War II had a profound impact on the city, with much of it being destroyed during the Allied bombings in 1944. Post-war reconstruction led to a modernist redesign by architect Auguste Perret, earning Le Havre a place on the UNESCO World Heritage list for its exceptional urban planning and architecture.

Here are some landmarks of Le Havre worth your attention:

– St. Joseph’s Church, designed by Auguste Perret, is one of Le Havre’s most iconic landmarks. Completed in 1957, the church’s striking 107-meter-high tower serves as a beacon visible from much of the city and the sea. The interior is bathed in colorful light from over 12,000 pieces of stained glass, creating a serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere.

– Passerelle François le Chevalier is a pedestrian bridge designed using the cable-stayed technique by Guillaume Gillet in 1969. Its sleek, minimalist design features a gentle arch that offers amazing views of the surrounding waterfront.

– Enjoy a relaxing walk along Le Havre’s pebble beach and promenade, a perfect spot for unwinding by the sea. The seafront area is lined with charming cafes and restaurants where you can savor local delicacies while taking in the ocean views. The promenade also offers stunning panoramas of the English Channel, making it a picturesque setting for a leisurely stroll.

Not displayed on the mug, but still interesting places to visit:

– The MuMa, officially the Musée d’art moderne André Malraux, boasts one of the most extensive collections of Impressionist paintings in France. The museum, which opened in 1961, features works by renowned artists such as Monet, Renoir, and Dufy. Its sleek, glass-fronted building offers stunning views of the harbor, blending art with the natural beauty of the coastline.

– The Hanging Gardens of Le Havre are a unique botanical haven set within a 19th-century fort overlooking the city. Opened in 2008, the gardens feature plants from around the world, arranged in themed greenhouses and outdoor spaces. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Le Havre and the Seine estuary while exploring the diverse flora and historic fortifications.