Belfry of Mons | Mons

Information

Landmark: Belfry of Mons
City: Mons
Country: Belgium
Continent: Europe

Belfry of Mons, Mons, Belgium, Europe

The Belfry of Mons (Beffroi de Mons) is the only Baroque-style belfry in Belgium and a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1999. It serves as the primary landmark of the city of Mons.

Visual Characteristics

The structure is a 87-meter tall tower constructed in the Baroque architectural style. It is built from white stone and blue limestone, topped with an intricate bulbous roof and a lantern. The exterior is characterized by its sobriety compared to Flemish belfries, but it features four distinct levels and a grand carillon.

Location & Access Logistics

The site is located at Parc du Château, 7000 Mons.

Public Transport: 15-minute walk from Mons Railway Station.

Parking: Nearest facilities are Parking Grand Place or Parking Halle des Expos.

Access: Located on the highest point of the city within a public park. Entry to the tower requires a paid ticket. The site is equipped with a panoramic glass elevator, making it accessible to individuals with reduced mobility.

Historical Origin

Construction began in 1661 and was completed in 1672. It was designed by architect Louis Ledoux and surveyor Vincent Anthony. The tower was built following the collapse of the previous "Clock Tower." Unlike most Belgian belfries, it was never attached to a market hall or city hall; it was a standalone structure intended to serve as a watchtower and a symbol of civic power.

Key Highlights & Activities

The Carillon: Contains 49 bells that are regularly played during concerts and festivals.

Panoramic View: The top offers a 360-degree view of the city, the surrounding Borinage coal basin, and the nearby battlefields.

The Interpretive Center: The interior houses a museum detailing the history of the belfry and its role as a UNESCO site.

Parc du Château: The surrounding park contains the foundations of the ancient castle of the Counts of Hainaut.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The interpretive center is located inside the tower base. Public restrooms are available. 5G signal is robust on the plateau.

Best Time to Visit

Open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 to 18:00. Closed on Mondays. Clear days are optimal for the panoramic views from the summit.

Facts & Legends

A verified historical detail is that Victor Hugo once described the belfry as an "enormous coffeepot" due to its unique bulbous roof. It is locally known as "El Catiau" (The Castle). During World War I and II, it served as a strategic observation post for various military forces.