Even as we begin to cross the street, we can more or less guess from a distance what will be the next center of attention of the visit. Both unmissable and symbolic, the Gros-Horloge is more than linked to the medieval past of the historic capital of Normandy. As if stuck on the facade of this 14th century Gothic belfry, housing the municipal bells, the clockwork mechanism is one of the oldest in France with a movement manufactured in 1389. Even if the operation is no longer mechanized as it was originally, the different faces of the monument above the arch are masterful works in their own right.

The 2.50 meter dials, both dressed with a gold leaf sun on a starry blue background, tell us the time thanks to a single hand ending in a lamb recalling the symbol of Rouen in the 12th century. To complete this dazzling picture, a week chart with each day its divinity and a globe indicating the various phases of the moon will be other details just as pleasant to look for and contemplate. As you pass from one side to the other, do not miss the finesse of the religious reliefs covering the stone vault that spans the street.

There is a lot of talk, but deep down you will have understood, there is no shortage of surprises when approaching this site, classified as a historical monument since 1862. Beyond its importance for Rouen, the Gros Horloge also has its real copy in the Notre-Dame du Liban cathedral in New York. A piece of DNA from the Normandy capital more than 5,500 km away, it had to be done.

For those who wish to discover the behind the scenes shared between the clock face room and the former apartments of the clock governor, know that this is a visit that is entirely feasible but requires payment.