Located in Haute Normandie, the port of Le Havre is ranked as the top French port. It was constructed based on a military and political vision. Originally, Le Havre was named Franciscopolis or Franchise City, in tribute to François I who established a maritime presence in the city. However, the old chapel of Our Lady of Grace was baptized Havre de Grace. In February 1517, the Salamandre further enhanced the seaport of Haute-Normandie.

The city of Le Havre suffered significant destruction on the night of September 5, 1944, but it doesn't seem to be visible today due to rebuilding efforts. The city was subsequently classified as a world heritage site by UNESCO. Le Havre's history is unique; it was created ex-nihilo by royal power to serve as a commercial link with the New World. As a result of its relationship with America, Le Havre became one of the most important ports in France. This connection with the United States also allowed the port of Le Havre to regain its prominence.

The Second World War was a turning point for the city, providing an opportunity to rebuild and expand its port, which had been disconnected from the city. The port was hit again by the oil shock of 1973, leading it to compete with ports like Antwerp, Amsterdam, and Hamburg. Currently, Le Havre is the largest city in Normandy, with 174,156 inhabitants.

In the Middle Ages, the mouth of the Seine was dominated by the ports of Harfleur and Honfleur. Their decline supported the emergence of Port Havre, which became a royal city in the 16th century. Since the eighteenth century, trade between ship owners and the colonies flourished, resulting in unprecedented success. This led to the establishment of a new city in the north of Le Havre by Louis XVI.

In 1852, as the population of Le Havre grew, the city walls were demolished and replaced by large avenues, and neighboring communes were annexed. These changes were facilitated by Napoleon III. After 1944, the transformation of the 150 hectares of the city center was entrusted to architect Auguste Perret, who introduced the use of reinforced concrete along with some classical vocabularies. These concepts were later inscribed on the World Heritage List by UNESCO.

Great architects like Bellarmato, Thibault, Lamandé, Perret, Niemeyer, and soon Reichen & Robert, as well as Nouvel, etc., have all participated in the renewal of the city. As a result, the city has become a heritage site thanks to its maritime and port activity.