Standing tall and proud over the old town of Draguignan, the Tour de l'Horloge is not just a timekeeper but a symbol of the city’s rich cultural and historical heritage. This impressive clock tower, with its commanding presence and intriguing history, has been a beacon for both locals and visitors alike, drawing them into the heart of Draguignan’s past and present.
The story of the Tour de l'Horloge begins in the 11th century when a fortress stood on the hill of Draguignan, protecting the settlement below. This fortress, first mentioned in a charter dated May 18, 1104, was a crucial defensive structure for the area. It was a time of feudal power struggles, and the fortress, with its crenellations and machicolations, was a symbol of might and protection.
In the early 13th century, during a period of civil unrest in Provence, the original fortress was destroyed. On its foundations, Romée de Villeneuve, an advisor to the Count of Provence, constructed a new tower in 1235. This tower, known as the Tour Royale and later the Tour Madame during the reign of Queen Jeanne I of Naples, stood as a testament to the region's resilience. However, by 1414, the tower had fallen into disrepair and was eventually demolished in 1509.
The current Tour de l'Horloge that we see today has its roots in the 16th century. In 1413, a new tower was erected on the hill to house Draguignan’s first public clock. When the original fortress was demolished in 1509, this clock tower was extended by two meters, with an additional 1.25 meters of machicolations, using stones from the old Tour Madame. This tower, now known as the Tour de l'Horloge, became a central feature of the town.
The tower saw further conflict during the mid-17th century when Draguignan was embroiled in the power struggles between the Sabreurs (aristocrats loyal to the royal power) and the Canivets (bourgeois supporting the parliamentarians). This conflict led to the temporary relocation of the local judiciary to Lorgues and the partial destruction of the tower in 1659.
In 1660, after a visit from King Louis XIV, the town was granted permission to rebuild the tower. By June 1661, the reconstruction was underway, led by Guillaume Mouretti, an Italian mason. The new tower was completed, and in 1723, it was crowned with a beautiful wrought-iron campanile, designed by Laurent Millaud and crafted by a blacksmith from Bargemon. The campanile added an additional six meters to the tower’s height, bringing the total to 24 meters.
The tower’s large bell, which weighs 600 kilograms, was cast in 1569 by Gaspard Garrel, a renowned bell founder from Lorgues. This bell, along with a smaller 100-kilogram bell added later, has been ringing out over Draguignan for centuries, marking the passage of time for its residents.
Today, the Tour de l'Horloge is a must-visit landmark for anyone exploring Draguignan. The tower is open to visitors from June 1st to September 30th, offering free entry to all. As you approach the tower, you can’t help but be struck by its imposing presence and the intricate ironwork of the campanile that crowns it.
The base of the tower is square, and it rises to two stories, each corner adorned with small turrets. These architectural features give the tower a distinct and somewhat whimsical appearance, reminiscent of fairy-tale castles. At the foot of the tower, you will find the théâtre de verdure, an open-air theater where performances are held during the summer months, adding a lively cultural dimension to your visit.
The Tour de l'Horloge is more than just a historical monument; it is a symbol of Draguignan’s enduring spirit and cultural identity. Inscribed as a historical monument in 1926, it stands as a testament to the town’s resilience and adaptability through the centuries. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a lover of architecture, or simply a curious traveler, the Tour de l'Horloge offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and a beautiful vantage point from which to admire the town and its surroundings.
In conclusion, a visit to the Tour de l'Horloge is an essential part of any trip to Draguignan. Its storied past, architectural beauty, and cultural significance make it a true gem in the heart of Provence. As you stand at the base of this magnificent tower, you can almost hear the echoes of history whispering through its stones, inviting you to become a part of its ongoing story.
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