Charlemagne Tower

The Charlemagne tower

With the Charlemagne tower, the Tours audio-guided tour shifts to another era. This tower is, together with the clock tower and the cloister of Saint-Martin, one of the few remains of the former basilica of Saint-Martin, demolished in 1797.

An imperial legend

Its name is said to come from Charlemagne's fourth wife, who reportedly died during a journey to Tours and whom the sovereign had buried here. The tomb has never been formally identified and the story remains uncertain. A great Romanesque basilica did indeed once stand here.

What to see

Declared national property in 1790, the basilica suffered many thefts, notably of the roof lead, and eventually collapsed before being entirely demolished. The Charlemagne tower was kept and restored as a symbol, echoing Napoleon, who saw himself as Charlemagne's successor. Observe its massive silhouette, witness to a vanished building.

Practical information

The Charlemagne tower stands in the historic centre of Tours, near the basilica of Saint-Martin. Visiting conditions and times should be checked depending on the season with the tourist office.

What is the Charlemagne tower a remnant of ?

It is one of the last remains of the former Romanesque basilica of Saint-Martin, demolished in 1797.

Why the name Charlemagne ?

According to tradition, Charlemagne's wife was buried here, but the tomb has never been identified with certainty.