La Tour du Guet
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La Tour du Guet
Place d'Armes - 62100 CALAIS
This medieval tower is the oldest monument in the city. Located near the port, in a lively area of Calais, it embodies the city's medieval past. Its long history means it has witnessed many significant events… The origin of this 38-meter-high tower probably dates back to the 13th century, although there is no irrefutable proof. The most likely hypothesis is that it was part of the defensive system initiated by the local lord, Count Philippe Hurepel of Boulogne. It was during this period that ramparts and a fortified castle were built. In the heart of Calais, the watchtower completed the system, with watchmen monitoring the city, the horizon, and the sea. It was at the foot of the watchtower that the Burghers of Calais entered French history on August 4, 1347! From the tower, Governor Jean de Vienne called the population to assemble in the parade ground. After an 11-month siege by the English, Calais was without food and without strength. Jean de Vienne announced to the inhabitants the surrender terms imposed by Edward III of England. These included the requirement that six prominent citizens of Calais present themselves to him dressed in sheets, barefoot, and with a rope around their necks. It was from the ranks of the population, gathered in the parade ground, that the future Burghers of Calais would emerge. The watchtower had suffered several misfortunes. In 1580, an earthquake struck Calais and severely damaged it. In 1658, a fire damaged it again. A few decades later (1696), the watchtower was struck by cannonballs from the English fleet. Throughout its long history, the watchtower also served many purposes. In 1818, a rotating lantern was installed to give it the function of a lighthouse. At the same time, it also served as a telegraph relay station. During the two World Wars of the 20th century, the tower was spared from the numerous bombings, particularly those of the Second World War. Today, the watchtower remains an essential landmark, to which the people of Calais are very attached. Did you know? A blue flag adorned with a white cross flies at the top. This is the flag of Calais. A royal decree by Louis XIV authorized a few port cities in France to have their own flag.
