Beffroi de Lille
Hauts-de-France
The Belfry of Lille City Hall, inaugurated in 1932, is a striking example of Art Deco architecture with Flemish neo-Renaissance influences. Designed by architect Émile Dubuisson, it was constructed as part of the new Town Hall after the previous one was destroyed by fire during World War I. The belfry stands 104 meters tall, making it the tallest municipal building in France and the tallest civil belfry in Europe. Built primarily of reinforced concrete with brick facings, its design echoes the 17th-century Flemish houses of Lille, featuring polychrome facades and imposing triangular gables. The belfry is notable for its two concrete statues of the legendary founders of Lille, Lydéric and Phinaert, sculpted by Carlo Sarrabezolles directly in fresh concrete. Visitors can ascend the belfry via stairs and elevator to enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the city, including landmarks such as the Stade Pierre Mauroy and the Flanders hills. The belfry is part of the UNESCO-listed Belfries of Belgium and France, recognized for their architectural significance and their role in the history of municipal power in Europe. It remains a symbol of Lille's political and commercial resurgence after World War I and continues to be an iconic landmark in the cityscape.
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Tip: The Belfry of Lille is open daily with guided visits by reservation at 10:00 AM and free access without reservation between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM and 5:30 PM. The last ascent is 45 minutes before closing. Access is via the large wooden door at the base on Place Simon Vollant. The belfry is free for children under 6 with prior reservation. The first Wednesday of each month offers free entry for individuals, subject to availability. Group visits and private bookings are available, with last-minute reservations possible by phone.
Interesting facts
- •The Belfry of Lille is the tallest municipal building in France and the tallest civil belfry in Europe at 104 meters.
- •It was the first reinforced concrete building over 100 meters high constructed in France.
- •The belfry features two statues of the legendary founders of Lille, Lydéric and Phinaert, sculpted directly in fresh concrete by Carlo Sarrabezolles.
- •The belfry was nicknamed the 'skyscraper in Flanders' by locals upon its inauguration.
- •A rotating beacon atop the belfry can be seen up to 30 km away, symbolizing the city's vigilance and influence.
- •The belfry is part of the UNESCO World Heritage listing of Belfries of Belgium and France, recognized for their historical importance in municipal governance.
History
The original Lille Town Hall, located on Place Rihour, was destroyed by fire in 1916 during World War I.
Following this, a new Town Hall and belfry were commissioned to symbolize a new era for the city.
Construction began in 1924 under architect Émile Dubuisson, with the belfry built between 1929 and 1931, inaugurated in 1932.
It was the first reinforced concrete building over 100 meters tall in France.
During World War II, the Town Hall was seized from German forces in 1944.
The building was only fully completed in 1992 after later extensions.
The belfry's construction marked Lille's political and commercial revival after wartime destruction and remains a landmark of municipal power and regional identity.
Place Guide
The Belfry Tower1932
Standing 104 meters tall with 400 steps, the belfry offers panoramic views of Lille and the surrounding region. Visitors can ascend via stairs or elevator to a belvedere that provides interpretative panels explaining the city's urban development.
Statues of Lydéric and Phinaert1930s
At the base of the belfry stand two concrete statues representing Lydéric and Phinaert, the legendary founders of Lille. Sculpted by Carlo Sarrabezolles directly in fresh concrete, these statues are notable for their size and unique creation technique.
Contact
Phone: 03 59 57 94 00
