About
The Belfry of Lille stands in the city of Lille in northern France, in the Hauts-de-France region. It is a tower of around 104 metres, and it is one of the places that visitors to the city tend to notice first, rising well above the streets around it.
The belfry dates from the 15th century and was built to express civic power. Its height and presence still speak to the role the town hall and its tower once played in the life of the city. It is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site, which places it among the monuments the world has agreed to protect.
What a visit offers
- Panoramic views from the summit, which give a broad sense of the city's layout and its surroundings.
- A carillon of bells that chime throughout the day, so the tower is also a place to hear the city's rhythm.
- A striking landmark to orient yourself by as you walk through the centre.
Around the tower
The belfry is part of the historic heart of Lille, so a visit fits naturally alongside a walk through the surrounding streets. Those who come to see the tower will find it an easy anchor for a day spent exploring the old town and the wider centre of the city.
If you are deciding whether to go, consider whether you want a high viewpoint and a sense of the city's history in one place. For many visitors, the belfry offers both, and its bells give the visit a memorable soundtrack.