The Belfry of Bergues | terredeflandre

A masterpiece of Flemish architecture Over the centuries

An emblematic symbol of Bergues, the belfry has stood at the heart of the town since the 13th century. Originally built as a watchtower and symbol of communal freedoms, it has stood the test of time, despite wars and fires.

Rebuilt several times, notably after its destruction in 1940, it is now a superb example of the resilience of Flemish heritage. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it houses a carillon of 50 bells, the melodies of which give rhythm to the lives of its inhabitants.

A true witness to local history, the belfry embodies the proud and vibrant identity of Bergues.

Self-guided or 2.0 tours Flemish history and architecture await you!

Fancy a breathtaking view over Bergues and the Flemish plain?

Climb the steps of the belfry and be rewarded with a breathtaking panorama! Along the way, learn about the history of the monument, visit its exhibition rooms and listen to the carillon bells.

Can’t climb the steps? Take an immersive virtual tour of the Belfry!

A unique experience, combining heritage and emotion, not to be missed when you visit Bergues.💛

Bergues belfry history plaque — ©Memory of the Bergues Belfry|CCHF

©Exhibition room on the history of the Belfry|CCHF

Carnival exhibition room - Belfry — ©Carnival exhibition room in the Belfry|CCHF

©Exhibition room on the history and architecture of the Belfry|CCHF

Frequently asked questions

How can I visit the Bergues Belfry?
Self-guided tours, in small groups of 19 people maximum, by time slot.
- April to October:
  - Monday to Saturday: tours at 10am, 11am, 2pm, 2.45pm, 3.30pm, 4.15pm and 5pm.
  - Sundays and public holidays: boarding at 10am, 10.45am, 11.30am, 12.15pm, 3pm, 3.45pm, 4.30pm and 5.15pm.
- From 2 November to the end of March:
  - Monday to Saturday: boarding at 10am, 11am, 1pm, 1.45pm, 2.30pm, 3.15pm and 4pm.
Prices: €5 / adult – €3 / child aged 5 to 11 – Free for children under 5. A family pass is available on site only.
Guided tours are available on the 1st Saturday of the month at the end of the day.
Virtual tours available on the ground floor of the Belfry.
How do I book a visit to the Belfry?
Booking a visit couldn’t be easier:
- for self-guided tours , click here
- for guided tours: click here
- for immersive tours: click here
A word of advice: book in advance!
What do I need to know before visiting the Belfry?
To visit the Belfry, you’ll have to climb the 206 steps leading up to the carillon and the panoramic view. But don’t panic, 4 exhibition rooms will punctuate your ascent and make it more accessible.
Characteristics of the Bergues Belfry :
- Current height: 47 metres
- Height of the old belfry: 54 metres
- Inauguration: 2 July 1961
- Number of steps (terrace): 206
- Number of bells in the carillon: 50
- Weathervane: “Nicolas” Lion
- Materials: yellow sand brick
- Ritornelles :
  - Hour: “Reuze Lied
  - Quarts : ” La mère poireau ” (The leek mother)
  - ½ : “Le mari Complaisant
  - 3/4 : “Kermis Lied
The functions of the Belfry over time
Over the centuries, the Bergues belfry has served various functions:
- Town gate: it is likely that the first tower also served as the town gate facing the Groenberg mountain.
- Watchtower: the belfry retained this function until 1914. Until then, two watchmen lived in the roof and kept watch over the town and its surroundings (enemies and fires).
- Town Hall: the burgomaster and his aldermen met on the first floor of the tower until 1586, when Philip II decided to merge the town and the castellany. The municipal administration then moved from the belfry to the Landhuys on the other side of the square.
- Bell tower: the tower of the “Banklocke” (the official town bell) and later the bell tower, the belfry still serves this function today.

Favourites

BerguesThe remains of the Abbey

Only two towers remain of the former Benedictine abbey:

The Square Tower, built at the crossing of the transept
and the Pointed Tower, located at the entrance to the abbey.

Only these towers survived destruction, in their capacity as navigational landmarks.

Thanks to the“Legendr“ applicationand augmented reality, discover the Abbey as it was before the French Revolution!

Wooden door of the Square Tower of the Abbey of Saint Winoc Bergues with explanatory plaques on the yellow brick walls — ©Door to the square tower of the Abbey of Saint Winoc Bergues

Abbaye Saint Winoc Bergues and information panel — ©Pointed tower of Saint-Winoc Abbey and tourist information panel

BerguesThe ramparts

Treat yourself to a unique walk along the ramparts of Bergues!

Take this historic route on foot and enjoy superb views from the foot or top of the ramparts. With its military heritage and soothing landscapes, the walk will delight young and old alike.

An open-air immersion in history!

And for the more curious, take part in our costumed walk around the ramparts.

Nekerstor Remparts Bergues 2021 Eq 4 — ©Nekerstor Tower in the Ramparts of Bergues

Couleuvrinier Tower and Ramparts Bergues — ©Couleuvrinier Tower and Ramparts of Bergues

BerguesTourist tramway

Come aboard the Bergues Tourist Tramway for a journey through time!
Inspired by models from the 1900s, the“Tram Nonante-Neuf” takes you on a 30-minute guided tour of the town’s history and heritage.
A fun experience, accessible to all, to relive the charm of yesteryear while exploring the Flemish city in a different way. Tickets available from Terre de Flandre Tourisme.

Bergues tramway locomotive — ©Tourist tramway 99 de Bergues

Tramway in front of the town hall and the Lamartine giant — ©Bergues tourist tramway and the Géant Lamartine

Discover Bergues