The Belfry of Aire-sur-la-Lys is one of the major symbols of the city’s rich heritage. Born from the political will for urban renewal instigated by Louis XIV shortly after the city was annexed to the French Crown in 1713, it sits discreetly but proudly behind the magisterial City Hall.
But the presence of a belfry in Aire-sur-la-Lys dates back to much more distant times. It was in 1179 that the city acquired a "cloquier" (ancestor of the Belfry). His role was to prevent the arrival of enemy troops at the gates of the city, or to watch for possible fires. A symbol of communal power over religion, it was also used to punctuate working days.
If the time and tumult that affected the city have repeatedly attacked the monument, the Belfry has always been able to rise from its ashes to take other forms. His first role has disappeared, but he remains in the sky of Aire-sur-la-Lys, and the melodies he sings every 15 minutes continue to punctuate the footsteps of the Airois.
For a guided tour, go back in time by climbing the 236 steps of the Belfry, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surroundings of Aire-sur-la-Lys,