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Origin and history

The bell tower of Annecy-le-Vieux is a 12th-century Romanesque building, the last vestige of a church of Notre-Dame today disappeared. Located in the department of Haute-Savoie, it would initially have been part of a larger religious ensemble, although its exact status (hoor or autonomous bell tower) was debated among historians. As early as the 16th century, it seems to be shared with the nearby St. Lawrence church, emphasizing its central role in parish life.

During the Revolution (1794), the two churches of Annecy-le-Vieux suffered destruction, but this bell tower was spared because it was considered harmless by the authorities. His bells were however destroyed, except for a recast in 1796 by Saint Jean-Baptiste Pitton. This "republican" bell, classified as a historical monument, is now at its base. The adjacent building, a former place of worship, became a school and then a town hall until 1971.

In the 19th century, the bell tower threatened to collapse, requiring restoration. In 1937, three new bells were installed by the Paccard foundry, still used for the St. Lawrence offices. Work in 1998 reveals a 15th century fresco representing the twelve Apostles, adding an artistic dimension to its heritage. Ranked a historic monument in 1908, it embodies the religious and civil memory of the village.

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