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Origin and history

The belfry of Millau is an emblematic building composed of two distinct parts: a square dungeon dating from the 12th century, a vestige of a palace mentioned since 1172 under the reign of Alphonse II of Aragon, and an octagonal tower added in the 17th century. Originally, the dungeon embodied the Aragonese domination over Millau, with an ostentatious architecture (bells in the middle of the hangar, archers, latrines) designed to impress. Private property from the 13th century, it became a symbol of communal autonomy after 1187, when Alphonse II granted consular freedoms to the Millavois.

In 1613, the consuls of Millau acquired the dungeon to support the octagonal tower (1614–1617), housing the communal bumblebee and a clock. The structure also served as a prison from the 17th to the 19th century, especially during the Revolution. The fire of 1811, caused by lightning, destroyed its arrow by 52 meters, reducing its height to 42 meters. The square tower, with thick walls and integrated stairs, contrasts with the octagonal tower in ochre sandstone, reflecting 17th century techniques. Ranked a historic monument in 1931, the ensemble now offers a panoramic view of Millau and its causses.

The adjacent L-building, probably the aula of the Aragonese palace, features 11th–13th century arcades and traces of galleries linking the tower to the ancient hotel of Tauriac (the town hall). Subsequent changes, such as the north rampant staircase, testify to its gradual integration into the city hall. The tower, lacking residential comfort, was primarily a political marker: first Aragonese, then municipal after 500 years of consular administration. Its hybrid architecture thus illustrates the transitions of power in Rouergue.

The upper platform, accessible by a post-fire side staircase, allows to embrace the urban landscape and the Millau viaduct. The materials — grey-blue limestone for the dungeon, ochre sandstone for the tower — highlight the distinct periods of construction. Despite the loss of its arrow, the belfry remains a major witness to the history of Millav, mixing royal heritage and communal identity.

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