Saint Aubin Tower

The Saint-Aubin Tower

The Angers audio-guided tour leads you to Place Saint-Eloi, before the imposing Saint-Aubin Tower. The former bell tower of the abbey of the same name, this religious remnant rises to 54 metres and is discovered with respect, as a testimony to a rich monastic past.

A remnant of Saint-Aubin Abbey

The tower was part of Saint-Aubin Abbey, present on this site between the 12th and 19th centuries. Severely damaged during the Revolution, the abbey church was demolished in the 1830s to make way for the seat of the prefecture, but its bell tower was fortunately spared. The tower, dating from the 12th century, preserves remarkable sculptures, notably on its capitals.

What there is to see

Rising to 54 metres, the Saint-Aubin Tower dominates Place Saint-Eloi and recalls the importance of the abbey in the Middle Ages. Its ground floor today hosts a small exhibition space. The Romanesque sculptures, especially those of the capitals, are among the finest in Angers and bear witness to the skill of medieval builders.

Practical information

The Saint-Aubin Tower is on Place Saint-Eloi, in the centre of Angers, near the prefecture. The tower can be seen freely from the square; access to the ground-floor exhibition space depends on the programming, whose hours vary. It is best to check with the tourist office.

What was the Saint-Aubin Tower ?

It was the bell tower of Saint-Aubin Abbey, the only remnant preserved after the demolition of the abbey church in the 19th century.

How tall is the Saint-Aubin Tower ?

It rises to 54 metres and dominates Place Saint-Eloi, in the heart of the centre of Angers.