Gros-Horloge

The Gros-Horloge, in Rouen

The Gros-Horloge is the most emblematic monument of Rouen, a Renaissance astronomical clock that spans the pedestrian street. The Rouen audio-guided tour stops here to evoke this masterpiece, whose mechanism is one of the oldest of Europe.

The Renaissance astronomical clock

The Gros-Horloge is undoubtedly the most famous and most loved monument of Rouen, a true symbol of the town. This magnificent astronomical clock is set in a richly decorated Renaissance arch, which spans the pedestrian street of the same name. Its great golden dial, adorned with a sun and allegorical motifs, indicates the time but also the phases of the moon and the days of the week. The mechanism of the clock, installed originally in the neighbouring belfry, is among the oldest of Europe, testifying to the medieval clockmaking genius. The arch, added in the sixteenth century, is adorned with sculptures and shelters a vaulted passage. Next to it stands the belfry, which you can climb to admire the mechanism, the bells and a fine view over the town. A masterpiece of medieval and Renaissance art and an emblem of Rouen, the Gros-Horloge is a must-see stop.

What to see

You admire the magnificent astronomical clock set in a Renaissance arch that spans the street, with its great golden dial indicating the time, the phases of the moon and the days, whose mechanism is one of the oldest of Europe, and the neighbouring belfry that you can climb for a fine view. The Gros-Horloge is the emblem of Rouen. It is a must-see stop, to be explored on foot.

Practical information

The Gros-Horloge lies on the pedestrian street of the same name, in the heart of Rouen, reachable on foot. You admire the clock and the arch freely from the street; the visit of the belfry follows its own hours and conditions, which vary. It is best to check them before coming.

What is particular about the Gros-Horloge of Rouen?

It is an astronomical clock set in a Renaissance arch that spans the street; its great golden dial indicates the time, the phases of the moon and the days, and its mechanism is among the oldest of Europe.

Where is the Gros-Horloge of Rouen?

On the pedestrian Rue du Gros-Horloge, in the heart of Rouen, in France.