A long history has united Honfleur and artists. Beloved by tourists, this little Norman harbour has its own special charm. It is also a place where the present and history are closely bound together. In its narrow welcoming streets Eric Satie's soul, the memories of Eugène Boudin and Alphonse Allais' laughter, all colourful characters, are still lingering. Many other men have followed in their wake, especially the artists, champions of the light.

Honfleur, is also the old dock and la lieutenance, its picturesque and tightly-packed dwellings , Saint-Catherine's Church, le grenier à sel (the old salt warehouse), the sailing boats, the fishing boats and the flamboyant call of the sea. These all remind us of the extent to which our maritime successes owe so much to the sons of the estuary.

In itself, just to evoke the image of Honfleur crystalizes an atmosphere, which the art galleries, museums, shops, hotels and restaurants zealously maintain throughout the year. Right away one feels at home there, so strong is the impact of this site on all newcomers.

Luis PORQUET