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Origin and history

Draguignan Clock Tower is an iconic monument overlooking the old town, built on a strategic hill. Its history dates back to the 11th century with a first fortress protecting the agglomeration, mentioned in a charter of 1104. This fortress, probably belonging to the Count of Provence, was destroyed in the 13th century by Raymond Bérenger to suppress a revolt of the communes.

In 1235, Romée de Villeneuve, advisor to the Count of Provence, had a 24-metre dungeon erected on the foundations of the first tower, called "Royal Tower" and then "Tour Madame". This structure, with slots and machicoulis, fell into ruins in the 15th century and was demolished in 1509. Meanwhile, a clock tower was built in 1413, enhanced in 1509 with stones from the demolition of the "Ma'am Tower".

The third tower, built in the 16th century, housed Draguignan's first public clock. It was destroyed in 1659 during a conflict between the "Sabreurs" (Royalist aristocrats) and the "Canivets" (parliamentary bourgeois). This conflict led to the destruction of the tower and the temporary transfer of the senate floor to Lorgues.

In 1660 Louis XIV authorized the reconstruction of the tower after supplications from the inhabitants. The works, entrusted to the mason Guillaume Muretti in 1661, gave rise to the present round. In 1723 a wrought iron campanile was added by a Bargemon artisan. The tower, with its two bells (including one 600 kg melted in 1569), was listed as historical monuments in 1926.

Today, the Clock Tower, 24 meters high, remains a major cultural symbol of Draguignan. Its ground floor and two floors, surmounted by turrets, house at its feet a "theatre of greenery" welcoming summer performances. The visit is free and open from June to September.

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