Marie Noël’s House

Take a look at the building on your right with a blue door. This is the house where Marie Noël lived. Born in Auxerre, Marie Rouget spent her whole life in this Burgundy city, pouring passion and dedication into her writing. A poet and writer, considered one of the greatest of her century, she endured several tragedies, including the death of her brother the day after Christmas, leading her to adopt the pseudonym Marie Noël. Winner of the prestigious poetry prize from the French Academy in 1962, her poems touched the hearts of readers across generations. They were sometimes dark, sometimes radiant, reflecting her soul, both passionate and tormented by the loss of her brother and the heartbreak of a youthful love that ended too soon. Throughout her life, she remained in her home in Auxerre, writing her thoughts and poems, which earned her numerous literary accolades. Unfortunately, these awards couldn’t ease her anxieties or inner struggles, but they established her as one of the most influential poets of the 20th century. For those who want to learn more about this remarkable figure from Auxerre, guided tours are available to visit the house where she lived, which inspired many of her greatest works! The street where her house stands is also named in her honour.