La Tour du Guet
See more images
This medieval tower is the oldest monument in the city. Close to the port, in a lively district of Calais, it embodies the medieval past of the city. Its long history means that it has experienced many episodes…
The origin of this 38-metre-high tower probably dates back to the XNUMXth century, without irrefutable proof. The most likely hypothesis is that it was part of the defensive system initiated by the local lord, the Count of Boulogne Philippe Hurepel. It was at this time that ramparts and a fortified castle were built. In the heart of Calais, the watchtower completed the system, with lookouts monitoring the town, the horizon and the sea.
It was at the foot of the watchtower that the entry of the Burghers of Calais into the History of France took place on August 4, 1347! From the tower, Governor Jean de Vienne called on the population to gather on the parade ground. After 11 months of siege by the English, Calais was without food and without strength. Jean de Vienne announced to the inhabitants the conditions of surrender imposed by Edward III of England. It included the obligation to have six notables from Calais present themselves to him dressed in sheets, barefoot... and with a rope around their necks. It would be from the ranks of the population, gathered on the parade ground, that the future Burghers of Calais would have emerged.
The watchtower has suffered some misfortunes. In 1580, an earthquake struck Calais and damaged it badly. In 1658, it was this time a fire that damaged it again. A few decades later (1696), the watchtower was hit by cannonballs from the English fleet.
In its long history, the watchtower also provides many services. In 1818, a rotating lantern was installed to give it the role of a lighthouse. At the same time, it was also a telegraph relay.
During the two world wars of the 20th century, the tower was spared from 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? At the top flies a blue flag decorated with a white cross. It is that of Calais. A royal ordinance of Louis XIV authorizes some port cities of France to have its flag.
