A welcoming
and beautiful clock tower, the Belfry (Le beffroi de Mons).
It is the
proud symbol and prominent landmark which the Montois called as “el Catiau”. The only Baroque-style belfry in Belgium and listed
as World Heritage site by UNESCO in 1999.
This tower dates from the 17th century and one of the most impressive building in Mons.
It is 87 meters high and has no less than 365
steps. The top of the tower contains 49 bells meanwhile, for a total of 25
tons.
The French writer Victor Hugo made a comment, which is often recalled,
about the appearance of the Belfry. He thought that the roofing of the Belfry
resembled a coffee pot surrounded by four teapots.
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The Belfry of
Mons is one of the newest among the belfries of Belgium.
It doesn't
look so old, instead.. looked very clean and well maintained.
That’s
because it’s undergoing a long-term restoration and now on its 6th phase for
the interior work. Actual restoration,
installation of an elevator, creation of exhibitions trays, repositioning and
operation of the clock.
It is a widely seen landmark in and around the town. So if going to the
center of Mons, just use the tower as a pointer.
And of course it also can be seen from the shopping street, which a good
reminder how many hours left til the shops closed.
If you want
to have a closer look, the Belfry is very easy to reach.
It's just
around the back of the Hôtel de Ville.
It's less
than 5 minutes walk, going a little bit uphill.
One of
my favorite sight in the morning.. opening the window and see it from a
distance.
In some
special occasions, the bells would play enchanting songs.
At
night, it looks like illuminating golden tower, giving a particular silhouette.