Timeline

Heritage classified

Origin and history

The Clock Tower, also known as the Marchaux Tower, is a building built in the 15th century, located in the town of Autun, Saône-et-Loire. It embodies a mixture of medieval architecture and additions from the 4th quarter of the 18th century, reflecting the stylistic evolutions of these periods. Its location, in the heart of the city, suggests a central role in urban life, probably linked to the signaling of time or defence.

The tower has been classified as historic monuments since a decree of 29 December 1927, recognizing its heritage value. This protection was extended in 2023 to include the hotel in Clugny, an adjacent building, emphasizing the importance of this historic area. Contiguous to Chareyre House, it is part of a preserved architectural ensemble, bearing witness to the urban history of Autun.

Available sources, such as Wikipedia and Monumentum, specify that the tower is located at Petite-rue-Marchaux or 9 Grand-Rue Marchaux, in an area marked by a dense historical location. Although its exact function in the 15th century is not detailed, its name evokes a public utility, probably a municipal clock. Property is shared between the municipality and individuals, without clear indication of its current accessibility.

The historical context of Autun, a city founded in Roman times, shows urban continuity marked by monuments such as this tower. In the 15th century, Burgundy, a prosperous region, saw the development of civil and religious buildings, often linked to local power or commercial activities. The Clock Tower is part of this tradition, as a symbol of the authority and temporal organization of the city.

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