Belfry of Rue, Gothic belfry in Rue, France
The Belfry of Rue is a square-based Gothic tower that rises roughly 30 meters high and features pointed turrets at each corner topped with a slate roof. The structure stands as a distinctive landmark in the town's center and forms part of the wider medieval architecture in the region.
Construction began in 1214 following the granting of municipal rights to Rue, marking the town's rise to importance in the medieval period. The structure was rebuilt after severe damage during the Hundred Years War and has remained a fixture of the townscape since then.
The belfry displays eight restored paintings showing daily life in the region during the early 20th century, hung in what was once a justice of peace room. These artworks offer a window into how people lived and worked back then, making this space feel connected to the town's past.
To explore the tower, be prepared to climb around 76 steps to reach the covered walkway at the top. Access is available through guided tours that operate during the warmer months, making advance planning helpful for your visit.
Hidden within one of the turrets is a former prison cell where visitors can spot carved messages and markings left by prisoners from the 17th and 18th centuries. These scratches on the walls tell stories of those who were held there, offering an unusual glimpse into everyday hardship.
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