Tour de l'Horloge, Medieval watchtower in Avallon, France.
The Clock Tower is a fortified stone structure rising about 49 meters at the highest point of Avallon's old town, commanding views over the surrounding area. At its base stands an arched gateway called Porte de la Boucherie, which once served as an entrance to the town.
The structure was built in 1456 by architect Jehan Berg as a defensive tower to guard against threats following the Hundred Years War. It reflects how Avallon rebuilt and reinforced itself during this period of recovery.
The tower displays the city coat of arms at its top, showing how central this structure was to Avallon's identity and pride. Locals looked to this symbol as a representation of their independence and collective strength.
The tower is easily found at the highest point of the town and can be reached from several paths through the old town streets. Wear sturdy shoes, as the access ways and surrounding area feature uneven cobblestone surfaces.
Inside sits a 230-kilogram bell cast in 1460 that still rings the hours for residents today. This ancient bell is among the few that have been in continuous use for centuries without interruption.
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