LE BEFFROI (BELFRY)

The construction of this belfry was decided in 1885, at the same time as that of the new town hall, to concretize the meeting of the communes of Calais and Saint-Pierre. After a pause in the work during the Great War, it was completed and inaugurated in 1925. It therefore boasts the most modern listed belfry in the region. Four knights covered with gold leaves fix the four cardinal points at its top, above the 4 dials of its clock. Its weathervane is a dragon, the traditional guardian of treasures. Its current electric carillon still plays the tune of the Gentille Annette, by the composer Boieldieu (1775-1834), created in the early 19th century. Unlike other older buildings, its tower is entirely empty. Only a staircase furnished the interior: it was only used by the technician in charge of setting the clock to winter or summer time. In 2012, the year it was opened to the public, more than 15,000 people climbed its 175 steps or took advantage of the translucent elevator to reach the walkway. From the top of its 75 metres, the belfry offers a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding area. A guided tour is a good way to see the traces of the city's historical development. It is also possible to make coupled visits with the town hall. Along with 22 of its peers, the Calais belfry has been listed by Unesco as a World Heritage Site, no less!