The Belfry

A landmark

Victor Hugo wasn’t particularly impressed: “a huge coffeepot flanked by four smaller teapots,” wrote the giant of French literature to his wife, Adèle when he came to Mons in 1837. But one thing did catch the writer’s attention: the building’s size. It is true, this belfry really is big. Big in size (87 metres), big in terms of history – it has withstood wars and plagues over the centuries, without ever flinching – and big for what it represents. The only baroque belfry in Belgium, Mons’ landmark demands respect. Since the late 1660s, it has proudly stood in the garden belonging to Hainaut’s counts, watching over the city. For years it has warned the locals of impending dangers: fires, invasions, bombings... Today it still marks the rhythm of life in Mons thanks to the chimes of its 49 bells.

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A stunning setting

Built in the park belonging to Hainaut’s counts, on the site of the former château, the building nicknamed “el Catiau” towers over the city. From the garden, the view of Mons is simply stunning. From the top of the hill, you can imagine the history of this city, the trials that it has had to live through over the centuries, and its influence through time, until it became the capital of Hainaut. Next to the belfry, the Sainte-Calixte Chapel remains the city’s oldest religious monument. This Roman style chapel was built in 1051 and now houses a museum where you can learn about the history of the old château and the restoration undergone by the belfry.
 

Practical information

• In the Parc du Château
• Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 6mp (last admission: 5:15pm)
• Belfry, Parc and museum route with access for persons with reduced mobility (access via rue des Gades)
• Prices: 9€ / 6€ / 2€ (children) / 3€/pers. (family price)
• Booking: 0032(0)65.33.55.80 or groupes@ville.mons.be