The Gros-Horloge (English: Great-Clock) is a fourteenth-century astronomical clock in Rouen, Normandy.PutGros-Horloge into our Rouen travel itinerary planner and find out what's close by, where to stay, and where to head next.
The clock is installed in a Renaissance arch crossing the Rue du Gros-Horloge. The mechanism is one of the oldest in France, the movement having been made in 1389. Construction of the clock was started by Jourdain del Leche who lacked the necessary expertise to finish the task, so the work was completed by Jean de Felain, who became the first to hold the position of governor of the clock.
The clock was originally constructed without a dial, with one revolution of the hour-hand representing twenty-four hours. The movement is cast in wrought iron, and at approximately twice the size of the Wells Cathedral clock, it is perhaps the largest such mechanism still extant. A facade was added in 1529 when the clock was moved to its current position. The mechanism was electrified in the 1920s and it was restored in 1997.
The Renaissance facade represents a golden sun with 24 rays on a starry blue background. The dial measures 2.5 metres in diameter. The phases of the moon are shown in the oculus of the upper part of the dial. It completes a full rotation in 29 days. The week days are shown in an opening at the base of the dial with allegorical subjects for each day of the week.
The Gros Horloge has featured in paintings by J. M. W. Turner and the French impressionist Léon-Jules Lemaître.
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Gros-Horloge reviews
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This is situated in the main shopping street that leads from the cathedral square to the old market square. Again a must see venue. The clock itself is worth watching on the hour. If needs be plenty..... more »
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The clock is located in the midst of old town Rouen streets. You will see it while haveing a stroll... personally, nothing really special about it.. worth a look but nothing super special more »
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Great street watch what reminded me a little on the one in Prague. The latter incorporate moving puppets that come out every ones in a while making it worthwhile to stay a bit. The one in Rouen is missing all that but still is a nice street watch but you will not stay long.
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Very beautiful monument, very famous in Rouen, is located in the city's most famous pedestrian street and shopping street. Tourist points must be. I haven't had a chance to visit the interior yet, but it seems very interesting. Don't miss it.
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