Description of the attraction
The watch tower, 83 m high, was built in the 13th century. It serves as a symbol of the desire of citizens of medieval cities for freedom.
The upper octahedral part was completed at the end of the 15th century. From the height of the 366th step, a magnificent panoramic view of the city and its environs opens up. There are also 49 bells that create a carillon - a sonorous bell chime. The most important - the victory bell - was cast in 1680 and weighs about 6000 kg and reaches two meters in diameter. Currently, the tower contains ancient letters about the fundamental rights and freedoms of citizens.
The watchtower served as the main observation post, from the height of which the enemy could be seen from afar. Through the main entrance you enter a rectangular courtyard, from where you can climb the steps of the stairs to the gallery. The lower floor of the building houses the Museum of Archeology, which contains historical relics and art objects.
In a niche above the entrance, there is a statue of the Virgin Mary, under which there is a small balcony with an iron fence. From here, until 1769, all laws and regulations concerning the life of the townspeople were proclaimed.
At different times and historical periods, Belfort was subjected to rough treatment, as evidenced by the numerous scars on its walls. Despite this, the Watchtower has survived to this day and is an important historical and architectural part of Bruges.
