La Tour Jacquemart: Guardian of Time in Romans-sur-Isère

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Explore La Tour Jacquemart in Romans-sur-Isère: a medieval tower with a fascinating clock and automaton, a symbol of the town's rich history.

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La Tour Jacquemart

La Tour Jacquemart, a historical landmark in Romans-sur-Isère, France, stands as a testament to the town's rich past. Originally built in the 12th century as part of the town's first ramparts, the tower gained its iconic clock and automated bell-ringer in the 15th century. The Jacquemart, a wooden and zinc automaton, has been striking the hours since 1429, becoming a symbol of the town.

A brief summary to La Tour Jacquemart

Pl. Jacquemart, Romans-sur-Isère, 26100, FR
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Monday 2 pm-7 pm
Tuesday 9:30 am-12:30 pm
Wednesday 9:30 am-12:30 pm
Thursday 9:30 am-12:30 pm
Friday 9:30 am-12:30 pm
Saturday 9:30 am-7 pm

Local tips

Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience.
Check the tower's opening hours before your visit, as they vary throughout the week.
Consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the tower's history and architectural features.
Bring your camera; the tower and surrounding plaza offer stunning photo opportunities.

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Getting There

Walking

La Tour Jacquemart is located in the heart of Romans-sur-Isère on Place Jacquemart, making it easily accessible on foot from most locations in the city center. From the Romans-sur-Isère train station, it's approximately a 15-minute walk. Follow the signs towards the town center and Place Jacquemart. No costs are associated with walking.
Public Transport

The local bus network in Romans-sur-Isère serves the town center. Check local timetables for the most convenient route to Place Jacquemart. A single fare typically costs around €1.50. From the bus station, La Tour Jacquemart is a short 10-minute walk.
Driving

If driving, take the A7 highway and exit towards Romans-sur-Isère (exit 14). Follow the signs to the town center and La Tour Jacquemart, located on Place Jacquemart. Street parking is usually available nearby, with parking fees typically ranging from €1 to €2 per hour. Be aware of parking restrictions and time limits.

Discover more about La Tour Jacquemart

La Tour Jacquemart is more than just a tower; it's a journey through time, offering a glimpse into the medieval period and the evolution of Romans-sur-Isère. Constructed in 1174 as the Gate of Aumône, it was later integrated into the Montségur fortress built by the canons of Saint-Barnard in the 13th century. The tower served as a prison from 1344 to 1835, witnessing centuries of local history. In 1422, the consuls of the city decided to install a monumental clock, commissioning Pierre Cudrifin from Switzerland to create the mechanism. The tower was raised by 10 meters to accommodate the clock, which was inaugurated on March 2, 1429. The Jacquemart automaton, standing at 2.6 meters tall, is dressed in the uniform of the Volunteers of 1792, commemorating Romans' role in the French Revolution. Today, visitors can admire the tower's medieval architecture, explore the surrounding plaza with its charming cafes and shops, and delve into the tower's history through guided tours. La Tour Jacquemart hosts cultural events and exhibitions, offering a dynamic experience that goes beyond its historical significance.