Belfry of Dreux, 16th century town hall belfry in Dreux, France
The belfry of Dreux is a 16th-century town hall tower that rises from Métézeau Square in the center of town, displaying both Gothic and Renaissance architectural features across its different levels. The tower stands about 36 meters tall and shows how construction techniques and tastes evolved during the decades it took to complete.
Construction began in 1512 under architect Pierre Chéron and continued through multiple phases under Jean des Moulins and Clément Métezeau, reaching completion in 1537. This quarter-century of building reflects both the ambition of the project and the limits of construction techniques during the Renaissance.
This structure embodied the power and independence of Dreux, standing as a physical expression of the town's prosperity and self-governance during the Renaissance. When you walk past it today, you sense that same statement about local pride and strength.
The tower sits on Métézeau Square in the heart of Dreux, making it easy to find and a natural starting point for exploring the historic center on foot. From here you can comfortably walk to other old buildings and streets that surround the square.
Each of the three architects who worked on this project left a distinct mark on the tower, visible in the different architectural styles at each level, creating an unintended record of changing tastes. Walking up through the levels reveals how design preferences shifted over the 25 years of construction.
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