Gros-Horloge

The Gros-Horloge is a real eye-catcher; it’s the first thing you see when you cross the street. This iconic landmark is a quintessential piece of Rouen’s medieval history. It’s mounted on a 14th-century Gothic belfry and its clockwork mechanism is one of France’s oldest,  dating back to 1389. Though no longer automated, as was originally the case, the two clock dials are still breathtaking, measuring 2.50 metres. Each is decorated with a beautiful gold-leaf sun on a starry blue background. They tell the time with one single clock hand, each sporting a lamb at its tip – a nod to Rouen’s symbol back in the 12th century. There’s also a weekday calendar, with a different deity for each day, and a globe showing the different moon phases. Talk about detail! As you cross the arch, don’t miss the stunning religious reliefs carved on stone right beneath it. So you see, this little gem, listed as a historical monument since 1862, is full of surprises. Fun fact: there’s an exact replica of the Gros-Horloge in New York in the Maronite Catholic cathedral of Our Lady of Lebanon. For those curious about its inner workings, you can visit the room behind the dial and the former apartments of the Clock’s “caretaker” for a small fee.