Belfry of Mons, Mons, Belgium

The belfry of Mons is one of the more recent among the belfries of Belgium and France. It is classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO since 1999. It is the only one in Belgium that is constructed in baroque style. With an altitude of 87 meters, it dominates the city of Mons, which is constructed on a hill itself.

The building was designed by architecture Louis Ledoux. He led the works from 1662 until his death in 1667. The work was continued from 1667 to 1669 by Vincent Anthony. This belfry is both a prestigious construction and a functional building as it served to warn in case of fire or, during the Second World War, to give alerts against incoming bombardments.

The belfry of Mons does not have all possible belfry characteristics like the presence of a jail or rooms serving the Justice department, but the Hainaut province is not a region with belfries that are as typical as the ones in Belgian Flanders and in French Flanders.

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User Reviews

Remco Poortvliet (17 months ago)
Very unique and beautiful building. It’s located on the top of a hill (Mons means mountain in French) and even though it can be seen from almost anywhere in the old city to actually get on top of the hill can be a bit of a search. There are 2 or 3 ways to get up there. One is going around it by following the road and then through the gatehouse. The second one is more challenging both in finding it as well as going up because it’s a small alleyway with quite some stairs. Not recommended for people with weak physical condition! But once you’re up there there’s a beautiful and peaceful park with amazing views over the city and its surroundings. We didn’t go inside the belfry itself but hopefully next time we can.

Ellegancia S (2 years ago)
The Mons Tower is a must-see and a must-visit. Entrance costs €9 and you have access to the top, the views of the city from the top are spectacular. There is a lift.

Sarin Marika (2 years ago)
A nice experience, maybe a little expensive tour for 9.00 euros, but regardless, the tour offers a nice view of the whole of Mons.

Stanislav Ivanov (2 years ago)
Beautiful and pleasant place. But undoubtedly, if you visit the city of Mons...immediately visit the clock tower - Belfry of Mons. Amazing experience, the music from the tower is wonderful. I couldn't believe it was being performed live...at the top of the tower there is a man playing these dozens of bells. Incredible ! I didn't want to go down, I could stay there for hours ...

Suyatra Sinha (2 years ago)
Went on Sunday afternoon and all museums were free. This place is so beautiful. The belfry is a clock, so do go inside and to the top.

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