The high and narrow facades of the houses that border the Vieux Bassin (Old Basin) of Honfleur would be the result of a real estate transaction. This architectural choice would have made it possible to multiply the plots and build buildings shared between two owners with the entrances on the quay side for one and on the Rue du Dauphin side for the other. The slate facades contribute to the enduring character of this fishing, commercial, and pleasure port with a rich maritime past. Its tendency to silting up has limited the economic development of the port of Honfleur, which has become the simple outer port of Rouen and has allowed it to retain its picturesque character.