Astronomical Clock of Besançon
Horloge astronomique de Besançon
Fee required
One of the world's most complex timepieces, located in Besançon Cathedral.

📜 Exceptional astronomical clock built in the 19th century, housed in Besançon Cathedral.
🔍 Features 30,000 mechanical parts, 70 dials, and 122 indicators.

Why Go

🕰️ Witness one of the world's most complex horological devices
✨ See 21 automata and zodiac signs
🌍 Displays local time in 17 places and tides in 8 French ports
🗓️ Perpetual calendar with leap year cycles and astronomical data

Why Avoid

🛑 Clock mechanism currently at a standstill, awaiting restoration

Tips

📍 Located at 10, Rue de la Convention, Besançon.
🚶 Easy access to Victor Hugo's Birth House and a canal tunnel nearby.

Cost

💰 5€, free for under-26s.

Hours

🕒 Cathedral closed on Tuesdays (April 1 - Sept 1), Tuesdays & Wednesdays (Oct 1 - March 31).
Closed during January, on May 1, November 1 & 11, and December 25.

Last updated 9 days ago

We strive for accuracy, but errors may occur. Please verify key info.