Beffroi de Bergues

This is the third belfry built on the same site. It was rebuilt in 1961 after being destroyed by fire (May 30, 1940) and then by dynamite (September 16, 1944) by the Germans. It largely follows the design of the previous belfry. As you climb the 206 steps, you can visit four themed exhibition halls. At a height of 47 meters, it features a superb open belfry that houses the carillon’s 50 bells. At its summit stands Nicolas, the lion from the city’s coat of arms, serving as a weather vane. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since July 15, 2005, and featured in the 2008 film “Bienvenue chez les Ch’tis,” the Belfry now houses the Tourist Office, the Espace Beffroi, and guest rooms. It is open to visitors in small groups of up to 19 people, by time slot. For those who do not wish to climb the 206 steps, a virtual tour is available (information at Terre de Flandre Tourisme).