Best For
Photography and a quick historical stop in the old town.
La Tour de l'Horloge is a centerpiece of Auxerre's historical heritage, dating back to the 15th century. Constructed upon the foundations of an ancient Gallo-Roman wall, the tower originally functioned as a 'Strong Tower' within the city's fortifications. Its most striking features are the two ornate clock faces added in 1700, which uniquely display the movements of both the sun and the moon. Located in a hilly part of the town near the cathedral, the tower is a favorite for its fairy-tale charm and serves as a proud symbol of the city's historical autonomy.
La Tour de l'Horloge is a centerpiece of Auxerre's historical heritage, dating back to the 15th century. Constructed upon the foundations of an ancient Gallo-Roman wall, the tower originally functioned as a 'Strong Tower' within the city's fortifications. Its most striking features are the two ornate clock faces added in 1700, which uniquely display the movements of both the sun and the moon. Located in a hilly part of the town near the cathedral, the tower is a favorite for its fairy-tale charm and serves as a proud symbol of the city's historical autonomy.
15th-century tower built on Gallo-Roman foundations.
Unique clock faces added in 1700 showing sun and moon movements.
Fairy-tale-like architecture in the heart of the city.
Symbol of the community's historical freedom.
Photography and a quick historical stop in the old town.
Tourists, Locals
La Tour de l'Horloge is celebrated as one of Auxerre's most beautiful and photogenic landmarks, often described as looking like it belongs in a fairy tale. With over 1,000 reviews and a strong 4.4 rating, it is a staple for anyone visiting the city center. Reviewers are particularly impressed by the 15th-century architecture and the unique astronomical clock faces that track the sun and moon. While it is highly recommended as a stop, some visitors note that it is a relatively quick sight to see rather than a full-day attraction. The tower's location at the top of the town means visitors should be prepared for a hilly walk from the cathedral area. Overall, it is praised for its historical charm and its role as a symbol of the city's past.