Over there it stands. The Belfry of Lille. This isn’t just any tower. It is the tallest municipal building in all of France. It stretches 104 meters into the sky. That is around 341 feet.
The Belfry of Lille is part of the city hall. The city hall was built between 1924 and 1932. Émile Dubuisson designed it. The belfry itself finished construction in 1931. It officially opened in 1932.
The Belfry is more than just a pretty face. UNESCO recognizes it as a World Heritage Site. It shares this honor with other belfries in Belgium and France. These belfries represent the history of municipal power in Europe.
The town hall it adjoins sits on Place Roger Salengro. This square is near the Porte de Paris. It’s easy to get here by taking line 2 of the Lille Metro. Just get off at the Mairie de Lille station.
The Belfry of Lille replaced an older town hall. A fire destroyed that one in 1916. After World War I the city decided to build a new one. It symbolized a fresh start. Gustave Delory was the mayor who pushed for this new beginning.
The Belfry is special for another reason. It was the first reinforced concrete building in France to reach over 100 meters. Its design takes cues from old Flemish houses. Look closely. Can you see the resemblance to the 17th-century architecture of Lille?
At the base of the Belfry you will find two statues. They are of the giants Lydéric and Phinaert. Legend says they founded the city. Carlo Sarrabezolles created these statues with his bare hands. He worked with fresh concrete.
Inside, a long gallery stretches 143 meters. It has 21 pillars on each side. Floral motifs decorate these pillars. The gallery acts like a municipal street. It connects to offices and the Council Chamber.
If you are feeling energetic you can climb the 400 steps to the top. Or you can take the elevator. Once you reach the top a breathtaking view awaits. You can see across Lille. On a clear day you can see the hills of Flanders. You might even spot the distant slag heaps of old mines.
The Belfry of Lille is more than just bricks and concrete. It represents Lille’s history. It embodies its spirit. It also symbolizes its future. It stands as a testament to the city’s resilience and its unique character.