Delve deeply into the history of Honfleur by strolling through the beautifully restored old harbor and browsing landmark churches in the town center and beyond. The harbor is rimmed with narrow 16th-century houses and is usually bustling, so it offers a candid snapshot of everyday life. A stone building known as the Lieutenancy stands at one end. When French impressionist Claude Monet lived in Honfleur, he beautifully captured the Lieutenancy in oil on canvas. You will surely notice Honfleur’s maritime influence at Sainte Catherine Church, the country’s largest wooden church with a separate bell tower. Shipbuilders constructed it in the 15th century with a timbered ceiling that resembles an upside-down boat. You will also visit Notre Dame de Grace, an even older church where the likes of explorer Samuel de Champlain and Napoleon Bonaparte have worshipped. The hilltop site offers an excellent view of the old harbor and the Seine River.