Belfries and town hall Office de Tourisme de Lille

Lille’s Belfries

The belfry of Lille Town Hall

Inaugurated on 16 October 1932, Lille’s belfry was conceived as a true work of art by architect Émile Dubuisson. Noble materials such as wrought iron, marble, wood and concrete were used to showcase the richness of local craftsmanship and expertise.

A symbol of post-war reconstruction, it boasts monumental Art Deco architecture, blending clean lines with intricate detailing. Its slender silhouette, alternating brick and concrete, embodies both municipal power and the ambition of an entire era.

Once inside, you can climb the 415 steps—pausing at each landing to catch your breath and take in the stories of this soon-to-be centenarian monument. Or take the authentic lift instead. At the top, a breathtaking and unobstructed panoramic view awaits you!

©Town Hall Belfry|Laurent Javoy - Hello Lille

The Belfry of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Designed by architect Louis-Marie Cordonnier in a neo-regionalist style inspired by 17th- and 18th-century Flemish architecture, Lille’s Chamber of Commerce was originally intended to replace the Old Stock Exchange. If you’re lucky enough to step inside, be sure to admire its majestic dome above the grand hall.

Its paintings and stained-glass windows pay tribute to the region’s powerful commercial and industrial past. Its 76-metre-high belfry adds a striking presence to Théâtre Square. Every day at noon, listen closely as the 25 bells of its carillon play the local lullaby “P’tit Quinquin”.

Experiences to enjoy around the Belfries

©Lille town hall belfry|Laurent Javoy - Hello Lille

Visit to the Town Hall Belfry

Climb the steps of the tallest belfry in France and Belgium, and take in the stunning 360° view that awaits you at the top.

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Between Two Belfries by Bike Taxi

Hop aboard a bike taxi and travel between the city’s two magnificent belfries, taking in several iconic landmarks along the way.

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©Belfry Armentieres Credit Photo O2 Secotine

Visit to the Armentières Belfry

Climb to the top of this red-brick belfry and enjoy an uninterrupted view over Lille and its surroundings, the Flanders hills… and even as far as Belgium!

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The Belfries of the Lille Metropolis

In the Lille metropolis, sometimes all you have to do is look up to spot a brick tower watching over the city. Of course, we’re talking about the belfries—those unique towers found in Lille, Loos, Armentières, and Wambrechies. The Lille metropolitan area is home to seven belfries, each one distinctive and full of character. Some are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, others are less well-known… but all are well worth a visit!

Belfries Listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Since 2005, four belfries in the Lille metropolitan area have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. An international recognition for these monuments that stand watch over their towns like benevolent guardians.

- The Belfry of Lille Town Hall
  It impresses with its height (104 m) and bold, elegant Art Déco style. From its panoramic platform, the view over the city is simply breathtaking!

- The Belfry of Loos
  Lesser-known, but equally emblematic, Loos’s belfry was built by Louis-Marie Cordonnier in a neo-Flemish style. With its bartizans, spire, and fine detailing, it quietly oversees the former industrial town, a discreet witness to a rich local history.

- The Belfry of Armentières
  Rebuilt after 1918 by Louis‑Marie Cordonnier in a Flemish Renaissance style, the belfry of Armentières rises to 67 metres. From its terrace, the view spans the Flanders hills, the Lys Valley, the mining basin’s slag heaps, and even Lille! Its 11‑bell carillon chimes the hours to the tune of La Madelon.

- The Belfry of Comines
  A masterpiece by Louis‑Marie Cordonnier, this unique belfry combines red brick and white stone. With its baroque campanile topped by an onion dome and twin lanterns, it looks straight out of a fairy tale!

Almost 20 years as a UNESCO site! The year 2025 marks the twentieth anniversary of this inscription—an excellent opportunity to celebrate these belfries with special events, guided tours, or themed walks!

©Lille Chamber of Commerce and Industry and its belfry|Maxime Dufour Photographies

Three Other Belfries Add to the Metropolis’ Charm. Though not listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, these three belfries are well worth the visit for their architecture, urban role or distinctive character.

- Lille’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry Belfry
  In the heart of the city, just behind the Grand’Place, this neo-Flemish-style belfry reflects Lille’s economic power in the early 20th century. Its carillon still marks time in the busy city centre.

- Belfry of the Former Chamber of Commerce in Tourcoing
  Less conspicuous but steeped in history, this belfry is part of an urban landscape shaped by the textile industry. It recalls Tourcoing’s economic golden age and strategic role within the metropolis.

- Wambrechies Belfry
  Small in size but full of charm! The municipal belfry of Wambrechies stands watch over the banks of the Deûle. It contributes to the tranquil, picturesque identity of this town, known for its riverside walks and heritage.

The Belfries, Sentinels of the Northern Cities

A symbol of civic freedom, the belfry is much more than just a tower. In the towns of northern France and Belgium, belfries once served to keep watch over the surroundings, sound alarms, and house the bells that marked the rhythm of daily life. They also safeguarded archives, charters, sometimes municipal treasures… and even prisoners.

From the Middle Ages onwards, every merchant city aspired to have its own belfry—a visible sign of its autonomy won from feudal powers. These imposing towers embodied both urban identity and civic unity.

Today, belfries still rise above squares and rooftops, proud witnesses to a living heritage. Some are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and have become places of memory, culture, and even gathering. They host exhibitions, guided tours, and cultural events. From their heights, they offer a new way to read the landscape, a different connection to history.

In Lille, Armentières or Comines, the belfries continue to tell—in their own way—the story of a free, united people deeply rooted in their land.

Louis-Marie Cordonnier The architect who shaped the Lille landscape

Louis-Marie Cordonnier (1854–1940) was more than just an architect – he was a storyteller in stone, a visionary who helped shape the identity of northern France. Born in Haubourdin, he skilfully blended regional tradition with modernity, embedding his creations into the urban landscape with strength and elegance. Among his many iconic buildings are the seafront at Hardelot, the belfry of Armentières, and the Sébastopol Theatre and Pasteur Institute in Lille.

His neo-Flemish style, combining red brick, stepped gables and ornate ironwork, captures the spirit of Flanders. Through his work, Cordonnier brought pride and unity to a region deeply marked by history. Even today, his architectural legacy continues to captivate heritage and architecture enthusiasts.

Give meaning to your moments in Lille

360° panorama of Lille

Climb the belfry for a breathtaking view, where you can admire the 360° landscape over a 35 km radius in fine weather.

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Visit Lille differently

Let yourself be driven or climb aboard an unusual mode of transport with your guide, who will take you through the city and some of its most beautiful districts.

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Full city tour

Discover the whole city and its districts on board the City Tour, equipped with an audio-guide system translated into 9 languages.

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Ideas for exits

The Lille Tourist Office has put together a list of the best places to go and things to do in Lille and the surrounding area. Get ready for a great time!