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Horloge Dewailly et Marie-sans-chemise: A Symbol of Amiens

Discover the Horloge Dewailly et Marie-sans-chemise in Amiens: a historic clock tower adorned with a captivating statue, embodying the city's art and spirit.

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The Horloge Dewailly et Marie-sans-chemise is more than just a clock; it's a beloved symbol of Amiens, steeped in history and local lore. Commissioned in the late 19th century, the clock features an ornate metal column topped with three dials. What truly captures the imagination is the bronze statue of a partially undressed woman, affectionately nicknamed 'Marie sans Chemise' (Mary without a shirt) by the locals. This statue, an allegory of Spring, has become a symbol of the city, surviving wars and controversies. The current clock is a faithful reconstruction, inaugurated in 1999, standing near its original location and continuing to charm visitors with its blend of functionality and artistic flair. It's a must-see for anyone exploring Amiens, offering a glimpse into the city's past and a perfect photo opportunity.

A brief summary to Horloge Dewailly et Marie-sans-chemise

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Take a moment to appreciate the Art Nouveau details of the clock's metalwork, a testament to the craftsmanship of the late 19th century.
  • Look closely at the statue of Marie sans Chemise; local students often playfully dress her up, adding a touch of contemporary fun to this historic monument.
  • Visit the Musée de Picardie to see the original stone version of the 'Le Printemps' statue, offering a different perspective on Albert Roze's artistic vision.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Amiens Cathedral, walk southwest along Rue des Chapelains, then turn left onto Rue Cormont. Continue onto Rue Dusevel, and you'll find the Horloge Dewailly et Marie-sans-chemise at the intersection with Rue des Sergents. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes, and the monument is easily visible from the surrounding streets.

  • Public Transport

    From Amiens Train Station, take bus line 6, 7, 9, 16, or N1 and disembark at the 'Beffroi' stop. From there, it's a short 4-minute walk to the Horloge Dewailly et Marie-sans-chemise. Single bus fares are typically around €1.60.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Amiens Train Station to the Horloge Dewailly et Marie-sans-chemise will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around €8-€12 for the ride.

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Discover more about Horloge Dewailly et Marie-sans-chemise

The Horloge Dewailly et Marie-sans-chemise is a captivating landmark in Amiens, France, embodying the city's history, art, and local spirit. Located at the intersection of Rue Dusevel and Rue des Sergents, this monument is more than just a timepiece; it's a cultural icon with a fascinating story. The clock's origins trace back to Louis Dewailly, a former mayor of Amiens, who bequeathed 25,000 francs to the city in 1892 for the construction of a public clock. His intention was to provide a reliable time source for the citizens, especially those who couldn't afford personal watches, ensuring they wouldn't miss their trains – a nod to the burgeoning railway era. The project was entrusted to architect Émile Ricquier, known for his work on the Amiens Municipal Circus, who designed the clock's elaborate metal column in the Art Nouveau style. The column, adorned with scrolls and floral motifs, supported three dials, each facing a different direction for optimal visibility. However, the clock's most distinctive feature is undoubtedly the bronze statue of a partially undressed woman, sculpted by Albert Roze. This statue, officially titled 'Le Printemps' (Spring), depicts a young woman with gracefully raised arms. The statue's nudity, though allegorical, raised eyebrows among the more conservative citizens of Amiens. In contrast, the locals embraced the statue, affectionately dubbing her 'Marie sans Chemise' – Mary without a shirt. This nickname, born from the Amiénois' playful spirit, stuck and became synonymous with the clock itself. The construction of the Horloge Dewailly was not without its challenges. Disagreements between Ricquier and Roze caused delays, and the clock wasn't fully completed until 1898, six years after Dewailly's bequest. The original clock also faced technical issues, including corrosion caused by the gas lighting used to illuminate the dials. Despite these hurdles, the Horloge Dewailly quickly became a beloved landmark, a testament to Amiens' civic pride and artistic sensibilities. The 20th century brought further trials for the Horloge Dewailly. During World War II, Amiens suffered heavy bombing, and the clock was severely damaged. The statue of Marie sans Chemise was removed and safely stored, but the metal column was lost. After the war, the city debated whether to rebuild the clock. In 1953, the remains of the clock were dismantled and discarded, with Marie sans Chemise finding a temporary home in a municipal storage depot. For years, Marie sans Chemise stood alone on a simple plinth, a poignant reminder of the lost clock. In the late 1990s, a movement began to reconstruct the Horloge Dewailly. The city council, led by Mayor Gilles de Robien, decided to rebuild the clock as a symbol of Amiens' resilience and its commitment to preserving its heritage. Architect François Vasselle was tasked with creating a faithful replica of the original clock, using Ricquier's original plans. The new clock was inaugurated on December 31, 1999, just a few meters from its original location, marking the beginning of the 21st century. The Horloge Dewailly et Marie-sans-chemise stands today as a symbol of Amiens' enduring spirit. It's a reminder of the city's past, its artistic heritage, and its people's capacity for resilience. The clock is a popular meeting place, a favorite photo spot, and a source of local pride. Marie sans Chemise continues to be adorned with clothing by playful students, a tradition that adds to the clock's unique charm. Visiting the Horloge Dewailly et Marie-sans-chemise is an essential experience for anyone exploring Amiens. It's a chance to connect with the city's history, admire its art, and appreciate the enduring spirit of its people. The statue of Marie sans Chemise is a reminder that art can be both beautiful and provocative, and that even in the face of adversity, a city's symbols can endure. The Horloge Dewailly is more than just a clock; it's a symbol of Amiens. It represents the city's history, its art, and its people. It's a reminder that even in the face of adversity, a city's symbols can endure. The Horloge Dewailly is a must-see for anyone visiting Amiens.

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