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Le Gros-Horloge: Rouen's Great Clock

Discover Rouen's iconic 14th-century astronomical clock, a masterpiece of engineering and a symbol of the city's rich history.

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Le Gros-Horloge is a 14th-century astronomical clock in Rouen, housed in a Renaissance archway. It's one of the oldest working clock mechanisms in France and a major landmark of the city.

A brief summary to Le Gros-Horloge

  • Tuesday 10 am-1 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-1 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-1 pm
  • Friday 10 am-1 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-1 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-1 pm

Local tips

  • Check the opening hours before visiting, as they vary depending on the season.
  • Purchase the 'Gros-Horloge Pass' for free returns within a year.
  • Take advantage of the audio guide to learn about the clock's history and mechanism.
  • Visit the shop for souvenirs related to the Gros-Horloge.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Le Gros-Horloge is located on Rue du Gros Horloge, a pedestrian street in the heart of Rouen. From the Rouen Cathedral, walk southwest along Rue des Carmes, then turn left onto Rue du Gros Horloge. The Gros-Horloge will be directly ahead, spanning the street. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    The closest Metro stop to the Gros-Horloge is Palais de Justice. From there, walk north along Rue Jeanne d'Arc, then turn right onto Rue du Gros Horloge. The Gros-Horloge will be directly ahead. A single Metro ticket costs approximately €2.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Rouen. A short trip from the Rouen train station (Gare de Rouen-Rive Droite) to the Gros-Horloge typically costs between €8 and €12, depending on traffic.

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Discover more about Le Gros-Horloge

Le Gros-Horloge, or Great Clock, is one of Rouen's most iconic monuments, a symbol of the city's rich history and enduring identity. This remarkable structure comprises a Renaissance arch spanning the Rue du Gros-Horloge, and a belfry that has housed the town's bells since the late 14th century. The clock mechanism itself dates back to 1389, making it one of the oldest in Europe. Originally constructed to allow the townspeople to know the hour and regulate their daily life, the Gros-Horloge features a single hand on each of its two richly decorated clock faces. These faces display not only the time but also astronomical information, including the phases of the moon. Under the number VI, a divinity associated with the day of the week appears on a triumphal chariot. The belfry, a Gothic tower, also offers a panoramic view of Rouen. A visit to the Gros-Horloge allows you to explore the inner workings of this exceptional monument. You can discover the clock face room and the 14th-century mechanism, as well as the original town bells. The site also has a shop where you can buy items dedicated to the history of the Gros-Horloge.

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