Located in the Seine-Maritime department of Normandy, Le Havre is a symbolic port city bordering the English Channel. Seine-Maritime, rich in its historical heritage and diverse landscapes between land and sea, offers a privileged living environment to its inhabitants. With a population of around 170,000, Le Havre is positioned as the largest city in the region, playing a central role in the economy and culture of Normandy.
Property of the city of Le Havre
Le Havre seduces with its maritime heritage and economic dynamism. Its port, one of the most important in France, is a true economic center, ensuring international trade and contributing to the influence of the city. But Le Havre is not only its port: the city also offers a rich cultural heritage, with monuments classified as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the famous Saint-Joseph Church and its extraordinary architecture by Auguste Perret. In addition, Le Havre benefits from a privileged geographical position, between the sea and the countryside, thus offering a pleasant living environment to residents and visitors. The region is also known for its peaceful landscapes and Normandy is a very green region with a very moderate climate.
History and culture of Le Havre
Le Havre, founded in the 16th century by François I, is marked by its maritime history and rich past. The city was largely rebuilt after the destruction in the Second World War, under the leadership of the architect Auguste Perret, who gave the city a modern face and its characteristic wide avenues. Today, Le Havre is a lively place to live, with dynamic neighborhoods, green areas and diverse cultural facilities. MuMa – the André Malraux Museum of Modern Art – is one of the city’s cultural flagships, housing an important collection of impressionist and modern works. Furthermore, Le Havre offers numerous cultural events, festivals and exhibitions throughout the year that highlight the life of the city and attract large audiences. Pay attention to the two main festivals, MoZ ‘aique World Music Festival and Hello Bird Festivals.
Grandes Écoles and large companies founded in Le Havre
Le Havre also hosts several renowned colleges, contributing to its intellectual and economic dynamism. Normandy Management School (EM Normandie), founded in 1871, is one of the oldest French business schools and offers training programs in management, finance and marketing. As for engineering schools, the National Institute of Applied Sciences (INSA) in Rouen, with its campus in Le Havre, offers high-level courses in various fields such as marine engineering and logistics. Economically, LeHavre is home to several large companies, particularly in the shipping, logistics and industrial sectors. As a major port city, it is home to companies such as CMA CGM, one of the world leaders in maritime transport, and TotalEnergies, a major energy player, which established the largest refinery in France there. With their presence and activity, these companies contribute to the economic dynamism and attractiveness of the city of Le Havre.
Note also that Edouard Philippe, a well-known political figure, currently serves as the mayor of Le Havre. Former prime minister under the presidency of Emmanuel Macron from 2017 to 2020, he then decided to devote himself to governing his hometown. Elected mayor of Le Havre in 2010, he has since implemented projects aimed at strengthening the local economy, improving urban infrastructure and promoting the city’s cultural influence. His commitment to Le Havre makes him a key player in the political and economic life of the Normandy region.