About
The Belfry of Mons, known in French as the Beffroi de Mons, stands on the Grand-Place in the centre of Mons, the capital of Wallonia's Hainaut province in Belgium. It is one of the most recognisable landmarks in the city, and it is a fitting first stop for anyone wanting to get a sense of the place.
What to expect
The tower is a bell tower dating from the 17th century and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its chief draw is its carillon of 49 bells, which gives the tower its voice over the square and the streets around it. The visit is less about a collection of objects and more about the building itself and the view it offers.
From the top, the tower gives panoramic views across the city. Visitors who like to orient themselves before exploring on foot will find it useful, as the rooftops, streets and surrounding squares are laid out below.
Making a visit
- Address: Grand-Place, 7000 Mons, Belgium
- Phone: +32 65 33 55 80, if you want to check arrangements before you go
- Allow time to look at the Grand-Place itself, which is the historic heart of the old town
Because the belfry sits in the middle of the square, it works well as part of a walk rather than a separate outing. Cafés, shops and the surrounding historic buildings are all within a few steps, so you can climb the tower and then settle nearby for a meal or a drink. The setting makes it a good choice for a relaxed half-day in Mons.