Le Gros-Horloge is Rouen's best-known monument: an astronomical clock set into a Renaissance arch over rue du Gros-Horloge, a pedestrian street of cobbles and half-timbered houses a few steps from the cathedral. The clock's movement dates to 1389 and still shows the phases of the moon and the days of the week. The Gothic belfry beside it can be climbed for views over the old town. Plan about 40 minutes to see the mechanism and hear the bells. The clock can be seen from the street at no cost, so you can look at it before deciding on the tower.
The clock and its mechanism
The clock's movement dates to 1389, which places it among the oldest working astronomical clocks in Europe. The face is gold. A sun with 24 rays sits on a blue background, and the phases of the moon appear in an opening above the dial.
A single hand turns around the sun to show the time. Scenes from Greek mythology are used to mark the days of the week, so the clock doubles as a calendar. The clock was first installed in the adjoining belfry before it was moved to its present position over the street.
The Renaissance arch and the belfry
The clock sits in a Renaissance arch from the 16th century that spans the street. The Gothic belfry beside it was built between the 14th and 15th centuries and houses the bells linked to the clock's movement. When the bells ring, they are loud.
Near the base of the arch, on the right, a fountain from the 18th century shows statues of a mythological scene. It is easy to miss while looking up at the clock, so take a moment to see it.
Inside the tower
A visit to the tower takes you through the clock room, where you can see the inner workings of the mechanism. The route then climbs the belfry, which is narrow in places. From the top, the view covers the roofs of the old town, and the spire of Notre-Dame Cathedral is visible.
An audio guide is available in several languages. A version for children, themed on Alice in Wonderland, is offered in English and French for children aged 6 to 12. A guided tour adds more detail on the clock's history and mechanics.
The street and its surroundings
Rue du Gros-Horloge is a pedestrian street with cobblestones and half-timbered houses. It runs between Place du Vieux-Marché and the cathedral. Shops, cafés and restaurants line the street, so it is easy to combine the clock with a walk and a stop for a drink.
In the Christmas season, the street is decorated and a market is set up nearby. The clock is also a short walk from the other landmarks of the old town, including Rouen Cathedral and the Place du Vieux-Marché.
FAQ
Is there an entry fee?
Yes. Entry to the tower and clock room is paid, and reduced rates are available. The clock can be seen from the street at no cost.
How long do you need?
Plan about 40 minutes to see the mechanism and hear the bells.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes. Activity books are available on site for children aged 5 and older. An audio guide themed on Alice in Wonderland is offered in English and French for children aged 6 to 12.
Is a guided tour worth it?
A guided tour adds detail on the clock's history and mechanics. Walking tours and local guides are available.
