belfries of belgium and france
category: cultural
year: 1999
region: Europe and North America
latitude/longitude: 50.1744400000, 3.2313900000
last visited: 2019
unesco id: 943
world heritage site: 943
The Belfries of Belgium and France, a UNESCO World Heritage site recognized in 1999 and expanded in 2005, are 56 medieval civic towers across Belgium and northern France, built between the 11th and 17th centuries. Symbolizing urban autonomy and power, these belfries, often part of town halls or cloth halls, feature intricate Gothic and Renaissance designs with bells for signaling time and events. This transnational site reflects the region’s rich civic heritage, showcasing architectural innovation and the rise of municipal identity in medieval Europe.
