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Origin and history

The Tower of the Bellême Clock is an ancient fortified tower dating from the 13th century, integrated into the city's urban enclosure. It represents the last preserved vestige of the medieval fortifications of Bellême, today located in the department of Orne, in the Normandy region. Its polygonal structure, combining white-cut stone and flintstone, illustrates the defensive construction techniques of the time. On each floor, archeries and mouths testify to his initial military function.

The tower owes its name to the clock it houses, an addition that marks its evolution towards civilian use after its defensive period. In 1780 it was sold by the last Count of Perche, marking a turning point in his history. Its inscription in the title of historical monuments by decree of 17 January 1989 underlines its exceptional heritage value, both for its architecture and for its role in the urban history of Bellême.

Architecturally, the tower is distinguished by its archères in the tail of aronde on the ground floor and its defensive holes on the upper floors. The east and west planes have mouths to fire, reinforcing its defensive character. Today, it stands as a symbol of the medieval past of the city, accessible from the Rue du Fossé de l'Horloge, and remains a major point of interest for visitors exploring Norman heritage.

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