Tour Perret, Amiens

Tower in Amiens

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Bfauvergue

Rising boldly beside the Amiens railway station, the Tour Perret dominates the skyline as a powerful emblem of post-war renewal and modern design. Completed in 1952, it was the tallest building in Western Europe at the time, a striking monument to France's spirit of reconstruction after World War II. Designed by Auguste Perret, a master of reinforced concrete architecture, the tower redefined urban design for its era - fusing strength, elegance, and innovation in a way that still captivates visitors today. Its monumental form, enhanced by a glowing glass beacon known as the “Sablier de lumière,” makes it one of the top sights in Amiens, especially when illuminated against the night sky.

The Tour Perret’s presence is not merely architectural - it’s deeply symbolic. Built in a city scarred by war, it represented progress and hope, rising from the ruins of the old railway quarter. Over time, the tower evolved from a bold experiment in modern living into a beloved landmark that continues to define Amiens’ identity. Whether admired from the bustling square below or viewed from afar, its unique blend of industrial power and artistic vision captures the resilience of the city and its people.

History and Significance
Things to See and Do
How to Get There
Is the Tour Perret Worth Visiting?
Nearby Attractions

History and Significance

The idea for the Tour Perret emerged during Amiens' post-war reconstruction. The city's railway district had been heavily bombed, and a new vision for the area was needed. Auguste Perret, already acclaimed for his work on the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées and his pioneering use of reinforced concrete, was commissioned to design a modern landmark that would symbolize renewal. Construction began in 1949 and was completed three years later, standing at 104 meters - an unprecedented height for Europe at the time.

The tower’s design exemplified Perret’s mastery of geometry and material. Its quadrangular base supports 19 stories of apartments and offices, while the upper floors form a polygonal section topped by a conciergerie. The building’s structural purity and rhythmic lines reflect Perret’s belief that concrete could be both strong and beautiful. Despite its innovative nature, the tower initially struggled to attract tenants due to high construction costs and rent prices. It wasn’t until architect François Spoerry acquired and refurbished it in 1959 that it began to thrive as a residential and commercial property.

In 2005, the tower was crowned with the “Sablier de lumière” - or “Hourglass of Light” - designed by Thierry Van de Wyngaert. This glass cube installation, illuminated by dynamic neon lighting, added a modern touch that elevated the structure's height to 110 meters. The ever-changing hues of the Sablier have since become an iconic feature of the Amiens skyline, symbolizing the fusion of history and innovation that defines the city.

Things to See and Do

While the Tour Perret is primarily a residential and office building, its architectural presence is captivating enough to merit a visit. The best way to appreciate it is from the Place Alphonse Fiquet, directly opposite the Amiens train station, where its full scale and symmetry can be admired. At night, the tower transforms into a luminous beacon - the Sablier de lumière cycling through colors that reflect the mood of the city.

Architecture enthusiasts will appreciate the tower’s meticulous design and Perret’s innovative approach to form and function. Informational plaques around the base provide insights into its construction and post-war context. The site is also a highlight of any walking tour of Amiens, especially for those exploring the city’s modern and historical contrasts - from medieval Gothic spires to post-war minimalism.

Best time to visit: Evening, to see the illuminated Sablier de lumière
Entrance fee in Euros: Free (exterior viewing only)
Opening hours: Accessible at all hours from the exterior
Official website: www.amiens.fr
How long to spend: 20-30 minutes for viewing and photos
Accessibility: Fully accessible from the public square
Photography tip: Capture the tower’s reflection in nearby windows or puddles after rain for creative compositions
Nearby food options: Brasserie Jules and Le T’Amiens are excellent for dining with a view of the tower

How to Get There

The Tour Perret is conveniently located right outside Amiens' main railway station (Gare d'Amiens) on Place Alphonse Fiquet. Visitors arriving by train can step out of the station and immediately see the tower towering above. For those driving, several parking areas are available nearby, and local buses frequently stop at the station square. Its central location makes it easy to include as part of a day exploring the city's major attractions.

Is the Tour Perret Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. While you can't climb to the top, the Tour Perret is one of the must-see places in Amiens for its architectural brilliance and symbolic importance. It's a rare example of early skyscraper design in Europe and a visual reminder of how Amiens transformed itself after the devastation of war. Watching it glow at night is a simple yet unforgettable experience that perfectly encapsulates the city's resilience and creativity.

Nearby Attractions

Cathédrale Notre-Dame d’Amiens: The city’s awe-inspiring Gothic cathedral, just a 10-minute walk away.
Musée de Picardie: A beautifully restored 19th-century museum showcasing art and archaeology.
Maison de Jules Verne: The famous author’s home, filled with artifacts and models from his imaginative world.
Quartier Saint-Leu: A colorful district of canals, cafés, and boutiques, often compared to a miniature Venice.
Les Hortillonnages: The city's serene floating gardens, where visitors can enjoy scenic boat tours through centuries-old waterways.

The Tour Perret is more than a modernist tower - it's a story in concrete and light, standing tall as a symbol of Amiens' enduring optimism and architectural ambition.

The Tour Perret appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Amiens!

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