Astronomical clock of Besançon, Astronomical clock in Besançon Cathedral, France
The clock features 70 dials with 122 indicators displaying various measurements, including local time across 17 global locations and tidal information for French ports.
Auguste-Lucien Vérité designed and constructed this mechanical masterwork between 1858 and 1863, replacing an earlier version created by clockmaker Bernardin.
The clock incorporates theological elements through automated figures performing the Resurrection of Christ at noon and burial at 3 pm daily.
The cathedral opens daily except Tuesdays from April through September, with additional Wednesday closures from October through March.
Through universal joints extending 100 meters, the clock mechanism powers four external tower dials and one internal cathedral dial.
Location: Besançon
Address: Rue du Chapitre, 25000 Besançon, France 25000 Besançon
Opening Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 14:00-18:00
Phone: +33381811276
Website: http://horloge-astronomique-besancon.fr
GPS coordinates: 47.23360,6.03080
Latest update: June 23, 2025 09:43
The monuments and historical buildings of Besançon reflect 2000 years of architecture. The Vauban citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site, overlooks the old town. The center houses Saint-Jean Cathedral with its astronomical clock, Granvelle Palace with its Museum of Time, as well as numerous civil, religious, and military buildings from the Middle Ages to the 19th century. The squares, parks, and quays lining the Doubs complement this architectural ensemble.
Besançon Cathedral
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Birthhouse of Victor Hugo
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Porte Noire
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Square Castan
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Palais archiépiscopal de Besançon
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Hôtel Boistouset
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Hôtel Mareschal
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Hôtel Alviset
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Hôtel Bonvalot
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Fontaine Saint-Quentin
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Hôtel de Sorans
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Maison, 142 Grande Rue
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Maison, 28 rue Rivotte
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Maison, 30 rue Rivotte
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Statue du cardinal Mathieu dans la cathédrale de Besançon
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