Grosse Horloge

The Grosse Horloge of La Rochelle is a former city gate dating back to the original fortifications known as Guillaume X. It received a bell and clock in 1478, becoming the city's belfry, replacing the Mallevault gate. 

Originally a gate in La Rochelle's fortified city, part of the early medieval fortifications, the Grosse-Horloge was built in the early 12th century during the construction of the first medieval enclosure. The gate featured two openings: a wider one for carts and a smaller one for pedestrians.

In 1478, an octagonal bell tower was added, topped with a campanile housing the clock bell. This upper part closely resembled the Cailhau gate (except for the central window). In 1672, the two openings were merged into a single arch to facilitate traffic.

In 1746, the upper part of the structure was demolished to make way for the current Louis XV-style cartouche flanked by scientific and military attributes.

Today, it remains one of the main passage points between the quays and the old town. For a few years, it also housed an archaeological museum related to the Templars of La Rochelle.

Address
Rue de la Grosse Horloge 7-1, La Rochelle, France

Established
12th century