Belfry of Béthune, Medieval bell tower in Béthune, France.
Description
The Belfry of Béthune rises above the Grand Place with three clearly defined levels constructed from sandstone and topped by a distinctive dragon figure. The tower's architectural features include ornamental detailing characteristic of medieval civic structures.
History
The tower was first constructed in 1388 to replace a wooden predecessor destroyed by fire. It underwent major reconstruction following severe damage sustained during World War I.
Culture
The bells ring out during local celebrations and important civic moments, maintaining a tradition that shapes the rhythm of life in Béthune. This practice keeps the tower connected to daily events and community identity.
Practical
The tower is easily accessible from the Grand Place and can be viewed from ground level with clear sightlines to all architectural details. Plan to visit in the evening to experience the colored illumination system installed on the facade.
Did you know?
A dragon figure called Beffy has crowned the tower's summit since 1503, serving as a guardian symbol for the town. This sculpture is deeply rooted in local identity and tradition.
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Église Saint-Vaast de Béthune
145 m
Grand-Place
3 m
Town hall of Béthune
136 mCity walls of Béthune
12 m
Tour Saint-Ignace
217 m
Hôtel de Beaulaincourt
284 m
War memorial of Béthune
163 m
Fouquieres Churchyard Extension
2.8 km
Église Saint-Vaast de Vendin-lès-Béthune
2.4 km
Église Saint-Vaast de Fouquières-lès-Béthune
2.7 km
Église Saint-Martin d'Annezin
1.6 km
Église des Récollets de Béthune
260 m
Théâtre Municipal
247 m
Château et ferme de Fouquières-lès-Béthune
2.7 km
Ancienne librairie Fournier
104 m
Église Saint-Jacques d'Essars
2.6 km
Palais de justice de Béthune
459 m
Carré militaire français du cimetière Nord de Béthune
960 m
Chapelle de Fouquières-lès-Béthune
2.6 km
Maison, 21 rue de la Délivrance
265 m
Jardin public de Béthune
620 m
Caserne Chambors
356 m
Boulevard Saint-Pry
395 m
Chapelle Saint-Éloi de Beuvry
1.9 km
Chapelle Saint-Pry de Béthune
313 m
Immeuble, 24 place du Beffroi, rue Grosse-Tête
68 m
Immeubles, 8-10 place du Beffroi
47 m
Golf de Béthune
1.1 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
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