Tour de l’Horloge, Aix en Provence

Tower in Aix en Provence

Aix En Provence Place De La Mairie
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Rolf Kranz

Dominating the Place de l'Hôtel-de-Ville, the Clock Tower (Tour de l'Horloge) is one of the most distinctive symbols of Aix-en-Provence. Rising above the Town Hall Square since 1510, it reflects the city's long history of independence and civic pride. Its sculpted façade, ornate details, and remarkable astronomical clock make it one of the must-see places in Aix-en-Provence for visitors drawn to history, architecture, and old-world charm.

The tower's rhythmic chimes and elegant Gothic form bring a timeless energy to the square below, where markets and cafés bustle daily. For travelers exploring the old town, it's a highlight of any walking tour of Aix, standing as both a historical monument and a living reminder of the city's vibrant civic life.

History and Significance of the Clock Tower

Constructed in 1510, the Clock Tower stands on a site once used by the Romans as a military checkpoint, linking its foundations to more than two millennia of history. Built in a flamboyant Gothic style, the tower’s white limestone base recalls its Roman past, while its delicate ogees, braces, and pinnacles represent the artistry of Aix’s late medieval craftsmen.

The tower's most remarkable feature, the astronomical clock, was added in 1661. Beneath it, four wooden statues represent the four seasons, manually rotated throughout the year to symbolize the passage of time and the eternal cycle of nature. A small blindfolded cherub is among them—a poetic nod to the saying that love is blind. Above, a wrought-iron cage shelters the bell that once warned citizens of invasions or fires and now marks the passing hours. Over the centuries, the Tour de l'Horloge has witnessed royal parades, revolutions, and civic celebrations, remaining a steadfast symbol of Aix-en-Provence's identity.

Things to See and Do in the Clock Tower

While the tower itself is not open to the public, visitors can admire its architecture and intricate details from the square below. The combination of Gothic tracery, decorative sculptures, and its white limestone foundation is especially striking in the afternoon sun. The astronomical clock remains a marvel of early engineering, still functioning today to display the hour and season.

At the base of the tower, plaques commemorate historical events and civic milestones, and the surrounding Place de l'Hôtel-de-Ville buzzes with activity. The lively flower market held here on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays adds color and fragrance to the historic setting. Standing in the square, you'll also have a perfect view of the adjacent Town Hall and the Corn Exchange Hall. This spot is one of the best places to see in Aix-en-Provence for photography and local atmosphere.

How to Get There

The Clock Tower is located in the center of Aix-en-Provence, on Place de l'Hôtel-de-Ville, just north of Cours Mirabeau. The nearest train station is Gare SNCF d’Aix-en-Provence. You can use SNCF Connect to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for National (SNCF ) and regional trains (TER). For a more streamlined experience, we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for both National and Regional travel across all of Europe, all in one place. For those arriving by car, nearby parking options include Rotonde and Pasteur Car Park. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you. The tower is easily accessible on foot from any point in the old town.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Clock Tower

  • Best time to visit the Clock Tower: Morning or late afternoon, when the light enhances the stone carvings.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Free (exterior view only).
  • Opening hours: Open square, accessible at all times.
  • Official website: www.aixenprovence.fr
  • How long to spend: 15–30 minutes to admire the tower and surrounding square.
  • Accessibility: The square is flat and easily walkable.
  • Facilities: Nearby cafés, shops, and public benches.
  • Photography tip: Capture the tower from the flower market side for a composition that includes the Town Hall façade.
  • Guided tours: The site is often visited on walking-tours of Aix's old town.
  • Nearby food options: Numerous cafés and brasseries around Place de l'Hôtel-de-Ville serve drinks and Provençal dishes.

Is the Clock Tower Worth Visiting?

Yes, the Clock Tower is one of the top sights in Aix-en-Provence, especially for those who appreciate architecture and urban history. It encapsulates the evolution of the city from Roman times to the Renaissance and remains a living landmark within a vibrant square. Whether you visit for the markets, the craftsmanship, or the sound of its bell echoing through the streets, it’s a quintessential Aix experience.

FAQs for Visiting

Can visitors go inside the tower?
No, the interior is not open to the public.

Does the astronomical clock still work?
Yes, it continues to function and display the seasons.

When is the best time to photograph the tower?
Late afternoon, when the sunlight warms the stone façade.

Is there a market in the square?
Yes, a flower market takes place several days a week.

Is the area pedestrian-friendly?
Completely—Place de l'Hôtel-de-Ville is part of the old town's walkable zone.

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The Tour de l’Horloge appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Aix en Provence!

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Visiting Tour de l’Horloge

Address: Tour de l'Horloge, Rue Gaston de Saporta, Aix-en-Provence, France
Aix en Provence: 0 km

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