Tour Charlemagne
An 11th-century Norman Romanesque tower, a resilient national monument offering stunning city views and a glimpse into medieval history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Tour Charlemagne
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An 11th-century Norman Romanesque tower, a resilient national monument offering stunning city views and a glimpse into medieval history.
"A must-see item with unique Norman architectural elements and fantastic views of the old city."
📸 Capture the Details
Focus on the unique Norman architectural elements for stunning photos.
⬆️ Climb for the Views
Don't miss the chance to ascend the tower for panoramic city vistas.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Tower's Norman Architecture
Exterior
Admire unique Norman elements like short arches and intricate edging, reminiscent of Italian and Sicilian Romanesque styles.
Panoramic City Views
Top of the tower
Climb the steps for a fantastic, sweeping view of the old city of Tours.
Historical Information Panels
Base of the tower
Learn about the tower's fascinating history, including its near collapse and restoration.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Tour Charlemagne
Understanding the History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Details
Focus on the unique Norman architectural elements for stunning photos.
⬆️ Climb for the Views
Don't miss the chance to ascend the tower for panoramic city vistas.
📚 Read the History
Information panels offer valuable context about the tower's past.
🚶 Explore Vieux Tours
The tower is located in the charming old part of the city.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Details
Focus on the unique Norman architectural elements for stunning photos.
⬆️ Climb for the Views
Don't miss the chance to ascend the tower for panoramic city vistas.
📚 Read the History
Information panels offer valuable context about the tower's past.
🚶 Explore Vieux Tours
The tower is located in the charming old part of the city.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by Tour Charlemagne's historical significance and unique Norman architecture, often praising the panoramic views from the top. While some note the tower's separate existence from the modern basilica and its past struggles, the overall sentiment is one of awe for its resilience and preservation as a national monument.
"Oh my Goodness!!!! Charlemagne died in 800 in this town, shortly thereafter the Carolingians started on this tower. Reported finish date is around 1000AD. Which makes sense with the unique Norman architectural elements ( short arches, Norman style edging similar to embroidery on the arches, pillars; solid, Romanesque original construction which looks a great deal like Norman/Lombard towers you will see in middle Italy and Sicily. The tower at Formia, north of Naples italy shares many charachteristics. Later modifications are easy to see. Buttresses, etc. It is an Absolute Tragedy the Original Romanesque Accompanied Church did not make it through the French Revolution. It must have been equally Immense, and keenly Crafted. The tower finally had almost 1/2 fall from neglect, absusive use as a lead Smeltery, carpenter shop, etc.
Thank The Good Lord it was restored. MUST SEE ITEM"
pts pts
"We enjoyed seeing this 48 metre tall, 11th-century tower that was once part of a medieval basilica that was demolished during the French Revolution. It is across a small street and clearly separate to the present day late 19th-century basilica.
Sadly the tower, being separated from the original church began to lose its structural integrity and partially collapsed in 1926. Various 20th-century restorations finally managed to reconstruct the tour, which is considered a National Monument, to what you see today. Information panels (French & English) next to the tower detail much of this history and is worth a read if interested in the building and basilica history."
Brad
"The so-called Tour de Charlemagne (Tower of Charlemagne) and the Tour de l'Horloge (Clock Tower) are the only remnants of the original building."
Ивайло Борисов
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tour Charlemagne is located in the 'vieux Tours' (old town) of Tours. It's easily accessible on foot if you're already exploring the historic center. Public transport options like local buses will also bring you close to the old town area.
Yes, it's a prominent landmark in the old part of the city and is usually well-signposted. It stands separately from the current basilica.
Walking is the best way to explore the old town and discover hidden gems around the tower.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, viewing the exterior of Tour Charlemagne is free. Access to climb the tower might have a fee, but specific details can vary. It's best to check locally or on official tourism websites.
Opening hours can vary, especially for climbing the tower. It's advisable to check with the local tourist office or look for signage on-site for the most up-to-date information.
While the exterior is free to admire, climbing the tower may incur a small fee. This often contributes to the maintenance and preservation of this national monument.
As a historical monument, it's generally accessible year-round, though specific climbing access might be seasonal or weather-dependent.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
A quick visit to admire the exterior and read the panels might take 30 minutes. If you climb the tower for the views, allow an hour.
Yes, you can climb the steps of Tour Charlemagne for a fantastic view of the city.
The tower stands at an impressive 48 meters (approximately 157 feet) tall.
Restroom facilities are typically available in the surrounding old town area, often in cafes or public squares.
It's one of the few remaining parts of an 11th-century basilica, a national monument that survived the French Revolution and significant structural damage.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the tower from different angles in the old town, especially during the golden hour for beautiful light. The view from the top is also a must-photograph.
Photography is usually permitted for personal use, but always check for any specific restrictions, especially if there's an entry fee for climbing.
Late afternoon offers beautiful lighting, while early mornings can provide fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Practical Tip: Encourage kids to spot landmarks from the top. The information panels, though text-heavy, can be simplified for younger audiences, focusing on the 'oldest building' or 'tower that almost fell down' aspects. Ensure children are supervised closely on the stairs.
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
Must-Do: Spend time reading the detailed information panels at the base of the tower. These provide crucial context about its construction, its role within the original basilica, and the challenges of its preservation. Comparing its features to other Romanesque structures you might have seen can be a rewarding exercise.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enduring Legacy of Tour Charlemagne
Fortunately, this national monument underwent significant restorations throughout the 20th century. These efforts have meticulously reconstructed the tower, preserving its unique Norman architectural elements. You can observe features like short arches, distinctive edging, and solid Romanesque construction, which bear a striking resemblance to towers found in middle Italy and Sicily. The information panels nearby provide detailed insights into its architectural evolution and survival story, making it a compelling visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
While the original basilica is lost, Tour Charlemagne, along with the Tour de l'Horloge, stands as a testament to the past. Visitors can climb the tower's steps to gain a fantastic view of the old city of Tours, offering a modern perspective on the historical landscape.
Architectural Marvels and Restoration Efforts
The tower's journey through time is marked by periods of severe degradation and subsequent restoration. The near-collapse in 1926 was a critical moment, prompting extensive work to stabilize and rebuild the structure. These modern interventions are visible, with added buttresses and reinforcements designed to ensure its longevity. The success of these efforts is evident in the tower's current state, allowing visitors to appreciate both its ancient origins and the dedication to its preservation.
Understanding the restoration process adds another layer to the visitor experience. It underscores the tower's value not just as a historical artifact but as a living monument that has been actively saved and maintained for future generations. The information panels are invaluable for understanding the phases of repair and the challenges faced in bringing the tower back to its current form.
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