Zimmer tower, Antwerpse Kempen Travel Guide

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Explore the Zimmer Tower in Lier: A historical landmark showcasing astronomical clocks and panoramic city views.

The Zimmer Tower, or Zimmertoren, is a unique landmark in Lier, Belgium. Originally a 14th-century city fortification, it was transformed in 1930 by Louis Zimmer, a renowned astronomer and clockmaker, to house the Jubilee Clock. This clock features 13 different dials displaying various time metrics and astronomical information, making it a fascinating attraction for visitors.

A brief summary to Zimmer tower

Zimmerplein 18, Lier, Lier, 2500, BE
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Tuesday 10 am-12 pm
Wednesday 10 am-12 pm
Thursday 10 am-12 pm
Friday 10 am-12 pm
Saturday 10 am-12 pm
Sunday 10 am-12 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Zimmer tower.

Visit the Zimmer Museum, adjacent to the tower, for a more in-depth look at Louis Zimmer's life and work.
Check the tower's opening hours in advance, as they vary depending on the season.
Arrive before noon on a weekday to see the carousel on the Jubilee Clock in action with fewer crowds.
Explore the Zimmerplein, the charming square surrounding the tower, with its cafes and shops.

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Explore Zimmer tower on the Map

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Getting There

Walking

From Lier train station, walk straight down Kerkstraat towards the city center. Continue until you reach the Grote Markt (main square), then turn right onto Zimmerplein. The Zimmer Tower is located at Zimmerplein 18. The walk is approximately 15 minutes.
Public Transport

From Lier train station, numerous bus lines connect to the city center. Take bus line 2, 3, 90, 150, 152, 297, 560, or 561 to the Lier Zimmerplein Markthalte bus stop, which is near the tower. Bus tickets can be purchased at the train station or on the bus. A single fare costs approximately €2.50.
Car

From the E313 highway, take the exit towards Lier and follow the N15 road. Continue straight until you reach the city center. Parking is available at the Gasthuisvest parking lot, a short walk from the Zimmer Tower. Parking costs approximately €1.20 per hour, with a maximum of €4.50 for the whole day.

Discover more about Zimmer tower

The Zimmer Tower, a captivating landmark in Lier, Belgium, stands as a testament to the city's rich history and the ingenuity of its people. Originally constructed in the 14th century as the Cornelius Tower, a crucial part of Lier's city fortifications, it was repurposed in 1930 to showcase the remarkable Jubilee Clock created by Louis Zimmer. Zimmer, a local astronomer and clockmaker, donated the clock to commemorate the centennial of Belgium's independence.The tower's exterior is adorned with the Jubilee Clock, an intricate mechanism featuring 13 dials that display a range of time-related and astronomical information. These dials show the official time in Belgium, the phases of the moon, the equation of time, the zodiac, and more. At noon, a carousel on the tower's right-hand side reveals figures representing different stages of life and important figures in Belgian history.Inside the Zimmer Tower, visitors can explore the Astronomical Studio, which offers insights into the universe and the solar system. The tower also houses the mechanism that drives the Jubilee Clock, allowing visitors to witness the inner workings of this horological masterpiece. Additionally, the adjacent Zimmer Pavilion displays Zimmer's Wonder Clock, a complex timepiece with 93 dials and automatons, which impressed even Albert Einstein.The Zimmer Tower is more than just a historical landmark; it's a symbol of Lier and a tribute to the passion and skill of Louis Zimmer. A visit to the tower offers a unique opportunity to delve into the world of time, astronomy, and mechanical ingenuity.