Sahurs in the 10th century...

... an inn built by the first Vikings, downstream of Rouen?

Located outdoors along the street of the Church, a exhibition of ten panels presents the results of historical and archaeological research conducted as part of the restoration of the church of Sahurs.

Long thought to date from the 10th century, the building is now illuminated by radiocarbon analyses. These place its construction between 774 and 1021, with a concentration of dates toward the end of the 9th century and into the 10th century. These discoveries refresh the understanding of the church's history and, more broadly, that of the municipality of Sahurs.

The exhibition also revisits the presumed origin of the name Sahurs, often linked to Scandinavian heritage. Several hypotheses associate it with the Norwegian toponym Salhus and the Icelandic term sæluhús ("refuge"), derived from Old Norse Sál(a)hús or Saluhús. In the Christian era, this word refers to an inn intended for travelers, composed of elements meaning "soul" or "bliss" and "house." These establishments primarily serve as reception places along the routes taken by Viking navigators, where one can eat, spend the night, and rest.

The church's ancient dating suggests construction shortly after the Christianization of the Vikings. It thus represents a rare testimony to their settlement in the Rouen area and provides unprecedented insight into the beginnings of their presence in Normandy.

Practical information:
Open to all
Free