In the historic center of Pont Audemer, the houses touch the entire water level. Their base is made of pebbles or bricks then oak and mud beams. We can deduce that the canals were built after the houses, the latter being protected by their stone base. The tanners invaded the city because of its proximity to the Risle river, between exactly two of its arms. In order to be able to wash the leathers more easily, they created canals with many washhouses that can still be seen today.