The Gros-Horloge (English: Great-Clock) is a 14th century astronomical clock in Rouen, Normandy.PutGros-Horloge into our Rouen travel itinerary planner and find out what's close by, where to stay, and where to head next.
The clock is installed in a Renaissance arch crossing the Rue du Gros-Horloge. The mechanism is one of the oldest in France, the movement having been made in 1389. Construction of the clock was started by Jourdain del Leche who lacked the necessary expertise to finish the task, so the work was completed by Jean de Felain, who became the first to hold the position of governor of the clock.
The clock was originally constructed without a dial, with one revolution of the hour-hand representing twenty-four hours. The movement is cast in wrought iron, and at approximately twice the size of the Wells Cathedral clock, it is perhaps the largest such mechanism still extant. A facade was added in 1529 when the clock was moved to its current position. The mechanism was electrified in the 1920s and it was restored in 1997.
The Renaissance facade represents a golden sun with 24 rays on a starry blue background. The dial measures 2.5 metres (25 dm; 250 cm) in diameter. The phases of the moon are shown in the oculus of the upper part of the dial. It completes a full rotation in 29 days. The week days are shown in an opening at the base of the dial with allegorical subjects for each day of the week.
The Gros Horloge has featured in paintings by J. M. W. Turner and the French impressionist Léon-Jules Lemaître.
Source
Create a full itinerary - for free!
Tours to Gros-Horloge
Gros-Horloge reviews
-
The clock is situated in the very center of Rouen in the same name street leading to the imposing Cathedral. It's undoubtedly a nice piece of art, but it's rather a pass by - one photo stop...
The clock is situated in the very center of Rouen in the same name street leading to the imposing Cathedral. It's undoubtedly a nice piece of art, but it's rather a pass by - one photo stop... more »
-
There are many shops and places to eat. The clock is spectacular, in the middle of the street. Close to the cathedral.
There are many shops and places to eat. The clock is spectacular, in the middle of the street. Close to the cathedral. more »
-
It's such an awesome place to go specially when you have a plan visiting Normandy! Afterall, it is the capital,people are very friendly here, the atmosphere is really one of a kind specially in Christmas time! You can see all people are laughing and having great time, the breathtaking beauty of this place and the activity of all the people around that makes you feel that you are in real Christmas atmosphere!! If anyone has a plan to come and visit here, do not miss it! Every touristic place is close to each other so, if you start from and excursion, do not stop, but continue to visit till you visit them all!
-
A beautiful piece of art! Overall the area has a great vibe- except for the Monoprix right in front of it which sort of ruins the aesthetics a bit but if you’re in Rouen definitely see this once.
Plan your trip to Rouen
Get a personalized tripA full day by day itinerary based on your preferences Customize itRefine your trip. We'll find the
best routes and schedules Book itChoose from the best hotels and activities. Up to 50% off Manage itEverything in one place. Everyone on the same page.Know more
Popular things to do in Rouen
Side trips from Rouen
Hidden gems in Rouen
Historic Sites in Rouen
Museums in Rouen
Trips in Gros-Horloge by other users
54 days in France, Spain & United Kingdom
BY A USER FROM CANADA
London
Bristol
Bath
42 days in Western Europe
BY A USER FROM BELGIUM
Ieper (Ypres)
Diksmuide
Veurne
21 days in France, Brussels & Amsterdam
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Paris
Bordeaux
Rouen
35 days in France
BY A USER FROM INDIA
Paris
Nice
Andon
33 days in Spain & France
BY A USER FROM AUSTRALIA
Paris
Nice
Hyeres
21 days in France, Brussels & Amsterdam
BY A USER FROM UNITED KINGDOM
Paris
Bordeaux
Rouen