Overview:

: The Belfry of Tournai is a 12th-century bell tower in the Flemish city of Tournai, Belgium. Situated on the Great Market Square of Tournai, the Belfry is thought to be the oldest surviving civic belfry in Belgium.It is also one of the oldest monuments in all of Belgium and has stood for over eight centuries. Although severely damaged in World War I, it was faithfully reconstructed to its original form. The Belfry of Tournai was included in the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1999. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Belgium
Prominent Features:

The Belfry of Tournai is a medieval bell tower located in the heart of the city of Tournai in Belgium. It rises to a height of 84.5 meters and is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. The tower was built in the 11th century and served as a watchtower for the citizens of Tournai. The Belfry is the oldest and most important bell tower of Belgium. The oldest bell in the tower, the Savoyard, dates back to the 14th century and is still in use today. It also houses a carillon of 36 bells, which are celebrated annually in the Grand Carillon Festival held on Ascension Day. The Belfry of Tournai has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Belgium.

History:

The Belfry of Tournai is a protected historic monument located in the Belgian city of Tournai. It is one of the oldest belfries in Belgium, and is believed to have been built sometime between the 11th and 12th centuries. In 1188, city status was granted to the city of Tournai and it is believed that a wooden belfry was erected at this time. In 1294 the wooden belfry was destroyed during a siege by the French King Philip IV. The present stone tower was built shortly after this and was dedicated in 1305. It is believed to have been built in the early Gothic style with features reminiscent of Roman architecture. It was part of the twin towers at the gates to the city and served as a watchtower as well as a bell tower. The belfry is one of the most important surviving monuments in the city of Tournai, and is one of the main symbols of the city. It is one of the few surviving medieval belfries in Europe and was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1999. The Belfry of Tournai stands 97 meters tall and is composed of four floors. It was originally designed to be the tallest tower in Belgium, but was surpassed by the Belfry of Bruges in 1304. It still stands as one of the tallest towers in the country and is visible from most parts of the city. The interior was renovated in the 19th century and now houses the city's archives. Its carillon, composed of 48 bells, is one of the largest in Europe and is still played daily. Since 1977, the belfry has acted as the official symbol of Tournai. It is featured on the city's flag, as well as on the logo of many local businesses and organizations. The belfry is a major attraction in Tournai and receives thousands of visitors every year. It offers stunning views of the city and is an integral part of Tournai's history and culture. Visit one of the famous monuments of Belgium with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. The Belfry of Tournai has been listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO since 1999. 2. It is the oldest bell tower in Belgium, with its construction dating back to 1188. 3. The Belfry of Tournai has an unusual architectural style that is a combination of Gothic and Romanesque. 4. The tower is 87 meters (285 feet) tall, making it the third tallest building in the city, after the Cathédrale Notre-Dame and the Town Hall. 5. It is the only belfry in Belgium that still has its four original bells from the 13th century. 6. It is also home to the “Gauchez clock”, the oldest clock in Belgium, which was installed in 1527. 7. The tower is open to visitors, who can climb up all its 324 steps to the top, offering stunning views over the city and the countryside. One of the historical monuments of Belgium, it tells the story of a bygone era