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Monument · Rouen, Normandia
Gros-Horloge
14th-century astronomical clock mounted on a Renaissance arch over the busiest pedestrian street in Rouen, next to a bell tower that can be visited.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Gros-Horloge
The Gros-Horloge (the 'Great Clock') is one of Rouen's symbols. The ensemble consists of a Renaissance arch spanning the rue du Gros-Horloge and, above it, a 14th-century astronomical clock with a gilded dial and a single hand, beside a Gothic bell tower (beffroi).
The dial indicates the hours; below it, a small window shows the days of the week, each depicted with a figure of an ancient deity, and a sphere at the top marks the moon phases. The monument has been listed as a historic monument since 1862.
The visit takes you inside the bell tower, where you can see the clock mechanism and the bells, and ends on a terrace with views over the roofs of the historic centre and the cathedral's spire. The climb is by stairs.
The rue du Gros-Horloge, pedestrian-only, links the Place du Vieux-Marché to the cathedral and is lined with shops and cafés in half-timbered houses, the typical exposed-wood façades of Normandy.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1 hour including the climb to the bell tower; only a few minutes if you just view the clock from the street.
Best time
On a clear day, to enjoy the terrace view. Check in advance the bell tower's opening days and times, which vary by season.
How to get there
It is on the rue du Gros-Horloge, midway between the Place du Vieux-Marché and the cathedral, about a 10-minute walk from the Rive-Droite station.
Tip
The climb has narrow steps; those with mobility difficulties can view the clock from the street. Take the opportunity to walk to the cathedral along the same street.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Gros-Horloge
What can you see when visiting the Gros-Horloge?
The clock mechanism, the bells of the belfry and, at the top, a terrace with views over the historic centre and the cathedral.
Does the Gros-Horloge clock work?
Yes. The dial shows the hours with a single hand and also displays the days of the week and the phases of the moon.
Do you need to climb stairs?
Yes. Access to the belfry and the terrace is by stairs; there is no elevator.