Tour Charlemagne, Romanesque tower in Tours, France
Tour Charlemagne is a Romanesque tower in Tours that rises approximately 48 meters high. Its lower levels display characteristic Romanesque architecture, while the upper floors feature Gothic style elements.
The tower was built in the late 11th century and originally formed part of the northern transept of the Saint Martin Basilica. That basilica itself was consecrated in 1014.
The tower's name honors Charlemagne, the legendary Frankish ruler whose influence shaped this region for centuries. Visitors can feel the connection between this medieval structure and the broader history of early European power.
The first two levels are accessible via a spiral staircase located in a side turret. Visitors should be prepared for stairs if they wish to explore the upper areas.
The south facade features a carved capital from the late 11th century depicting four scenes from the story of Daniel in the lions' den. This artistic detail is easy to miss, but rewards careful observers with a glimpse of early medieval craftsmanship.
Location: Tours
Architectural style: Romanesque architecture
Part of: opatija Marmoutier
Address: 47 rue Néricault-Destouches
GPS coordinates: 47.39330,0.68254
Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:41
The Loire Valley features Gothic cathedrals, Renaissance châteaux and medieval squares. From Saint-Gatien Cathedral to Château de Chenonceau, each location displays architectural details: towers, stone walls, decorated facades and geometric gardens. The city of Tours combines half-timbered houses, bridges over the Loire, religious buildings and public squares with century-old trees. Saint-Gatien Cathedral rises with its two towers and stained glass windows from the 13th century in the heart of Tours. Château de Chenonceau spans the Cher River with its galleries and French gardens. Place Plumereau in the historic center is surrounded by medieval houses with wooden beams. The Loire châteaux such as Amboise, Villandry and Azay-le-Rideau offer photographs of white stone facades, towers and terraced gardens. The banks of the Loire reveal sandy beaches, old stone bridges and vineyards stretching along the river.
Basilica of St. Martin, Tours
32 m
Enceinte Châteauneuf
104 m
Tour de l'Horloge
0 m
Basilique Saint-Martin
52 m
Église Saint-Denis
51 m
Église Sainte-Croix de Tours
80 m
Hôtel de Jean Briçonnet
46 m
Ancienne maison canoniale de Saint-Martin
107 m
Hôtel des Ducs de Touraine
45 m
Chapelle Saint-Jean de Tours
109 m
Maisons, 2 rue du Change
105 m
Maison de l'Arbalète
88 m
Cure de l'église Sainte-Croix de Tours
92 m
Immeuble, 1 rue de la Rôtisserie
100 m
Hôtellerie du Panier Fleury
75 m
Hôtel de l'Arbalète
89 m
Chancellerie de la collégiale Saint-Martin de Tours
82 m
Maison de La Psalette
103 m
Oratoire des Briçonnets
61 m
Abbaye de Marmoutier
32 m
Maison, 3 rue de la Rôtisserie
108 m
Maison 26 rue de la Monnaie
111 m
Maison, 4 rue du Grand-Marché
115 m
Maison, 6 rue du Grand-Marché
117 m
Maison, 10 rue du Grand-Marché
122 m
Maison canoniale de Saint-Martin, 6 rue Rapin
106 m
Maison, 8 rue du Grand-Marché
118 m
Maison, 2 rue du Grand-Marché
110 mReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes