The Gros-Horloge in Rouen had caught my eye in photos long before I ever visited.
But nothing could have prepared me for the breathtaking beauty of seeing it in person for the first time.
Perched on a Renaissance arch spanning the bustling Rue du Gros-Horloge, this astronomical clock demands attention.
Flanked by a Gothic belfry dating back to the 14th century, it’s more than just a monument – it’s a true gem in the heart of Rouen’s old town, captivating visitors from the moment they see it.
The Astronomical Clock of Rouen’s Gros-Horloge
The astronomic clock is on a Renaissance arch that has spanned the street since 1527.
It lies roughly equidistant between the Place du Vieux Marché and the cathedral.
The Gros-Horloge itself dates back to the 16th century, and its movement dates from 1389.
The two faces of the clock display 24 rays of sun against a blue starred sky.
The dial’s diameter is 2.50 metres.
A single hand ending with a depiction of a lamb shows the hour.
The moon phases are indicated in the oculus above the clock face, in a sphere of 30 centimetres in diameter.
It completes a full rotation in 29 days.
There is also a hand showing the week inside an opening at the base of the dial.
Allegoric characters decorate it:
- Diane as the moon (Monday),
- Mars (Tuesday),
- Mercury (Wednesday),
- Jupiter (Thursday),
- Venus (Friday),
- Saturn (Saturday) and
- Apollo (Sunday).
Although the clock’s mechanism is one of the oldest in Europe, it has been powered by electricity since the 1920s, despite the fact that the movement is still working efficiently.
The whole building was restored from 1997 to 2006, and the clock’s illumination at night makes it worth a visit.
The Gros-Horloge’s Archway
Remarkable sculptures can be observed while passing under the arch.
The coat of arms of Rouen is found at the centre of the archway.
It features the Lamb of God on a red background (the colour of Normandy).
The coat of arms is held by two angels, one with its head wrongly placed—the result of workers’ discontent during the construction.
Under the arch is a bas-relief of Christ as the Good Shepherd.
On each side are representations of lambs in pasture.
The Gothic Belfry
The Gros Horloge is flanked by a Gothic belfry built between the 14th and 15th centuries.
The belfry houses the bells linked to the clock’s movement.
The Gros Horloge and its belfry have been listed as a historic monument since 1862.
The museum houses the clockmaker’s workshop, bells, weights, machinery, and the bell tower’s dome.
The various exhibition rooms are related to the building and the history of Rouen.
A climb to the upper terrace offers a fine panoramic view of the city’s roofs and the Rouen Cathedral in the distance.
Visit the Tourist Board website of Rouen for more info.
More photos of Rouen’s Gros Horloge
Find out more about Gros-Horloge and Rouen
Other Astronomical Clocks of Interest in France
Where to stay in Rouen?
You can choose from a great range of accommodation in Rouen, from hotels to B&Bs and campsites!
My recommendation is to book your accommodation near the city centre.
Although it’s a more pricey option, you’ll save time on transportation and can access most of the landmarks I discovered while walking in the old town of Rouen.
Also, when possible, don’t wait until the last minute to book, as finding hotel rooms can be a problem, especially on the weekends.
To book your accommodation in Rouen, click on this affiliate link, which will redirect you to our partner booking.com… or use the interactive map below:
Things to do in Rouen, Normandy
Looking for activities and things to do in Rouen? Check out the offers from our partner Get Your Guide:
Walking in the old town of Rouen: more info
Here are a few website and blogs about Rouen that you might find useful:
- on the blog: Rouen Old Town
- on the blog: Rouen Cathedral
- Tourist Board of Rouen
- Tourist Board of Normandy
- Wikipedia’s article on Rouen
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Wonderful article, Pierre, with your usual beautiful photos and historical details. Rouen is such a treasure; this article makes me want to return!
Thank you, Ellen! I wanted to go back there too when I updated the article!!