Standing tall and proud in the heart of Victoria, the Clock Tower, known locally as ‘Lorloz’, is a true testament to Seychelles’ rich history. This elegant replica of the famous clock in London was erected in 1903 as a memorial to Queen Victoria. The governor at the time, Sir Ernest Sweet-Escott, had admired the original clock during a visit to London. He decided to commission a similar clock for Seychelles as a symbol of the island’s connection to the British Empire. The clock, made by Messrs Gillet and Johnson of Croydon, was partly funded by public subscription.
The clock was originally meant to chime, but unfortunately, it failed to do so. However, in 1999, the clock mechanism was completely replaced with a modern, quartz master clock. Gillett and Johnson, the original manufacturers, carried out the work. It was another public subscription that paid for the new mechanism.
The Clock Tower has stood witness to Seychelles’ transition from a British colony to an independent republic. It is a symbol of the island nation’s enduring spirit and its ability to adapt to change. The Clock Tower has kept time for nearly 120 years and is now one of Seychelles’ cherished national monuments.