Ship repairing and petroleum refining are also economically important. Despite severe destruction during World War II, the city has saved much of its past and is known as the Museum City. Historical and architectural treasures make Rouen a tourist center. The city is now part of the future planning region for Greater Paris. The university was established in 1966.
Several museums exhibit the work of French masters.
T he site of Rouen was originally settled by Celts and later by the Romans as Rotumagus. Its name was changed to Rouen during the Middle Ages. The city was held by the English from 1066 to 1204 and from 1419 to 1449. The trial and execution of Joan of Arc occurred there in 1431. It was taken by the Germans in 1870 and again in 1940 but recaptured by the Allies in 1944.