Horloge Astronomique
Listed as a Historic Monument in 1991, the astronomical clock in Besançon's Saint-Jean cathedral was designed between 1858 and 1860 by the clockmaker Auguste Lucien Vérité. It is a veritable mechanical masterpiece, comprising more than 30,000 parts. The 57 dials provide a wealth of information, including calendars, the movement of the planets, eclipses and the time of high tide in various ports.
The astronomical clock, which is currently at a standstill, is offering a new mediation service until it enters the restoration phase.
- French, English
- Credit card, Cheques and postal orders, Holiday vouchers, Cash, Eurocard - Mastercard, Visa
- Pets not allowed
From 02/05/2025 to 31/10/2025 of 10:00 to 12:30 - of 14:00 to 18:00.
Closed on : Monday
From 01/11/2025 to 03/11/2025 of 10:00 to 12:30 - of 14:00 to 18:00.
Closed on : Monday
From 20/12/2025 to 24/12/2025 of 10:00 to 12:30 - of 14:00 to 18:00.
Closed on : Monday
From 26/12/2025 to 31/12/2025 of 10:00 to 12:30 - of 14:00 to 18:00.
Closed on : Monday
Opening times: 10am - 12.30pm and 2pm - 6pm
From 1st April to 31st October
Closed on Monday
All Saints' Day, Christmas, Winter and Easter holidays: 10am - 12.30pm and 2pm - 6pm
Closed on Mondays
Please note: last access to the monument 30 minutes before closing time.
Closed on 1 January, 1 May and 25 December.
Guided tours: 10.30 am, 11.30 am, 2.30 pm, 3.30 pm and 4.30 pm.
- Base rate - full rate adult : 5€
- Gratuities (Young people aged 18-25 who are members of the EU, teachers with an Education Pass, jobseekers and recipients of minimum social benefits.)
- Special rate (SNCF Grand Voyageur) : 3€
- Gratuities (Young people aged 18-25 who are members of the EU, teachers with an Education Pass, jobseekers and recipients of minimum social benefits.)
- Group rate : 4€
- School rate (school package) : 20€
- Gratuities (Person with a disability and their carer)
- Group rate (reduced rate) : 4.5€
- Gratuities (Disabled person and companion)
- Special rate (SNCF Grand Voyageur season ticket) : 4€
- Special rate (SNCF Grand Voyageur season ticket) : 4€
- Other rate (SNCF Inoui) : 4.5€
- Other rate (SNCF Inoui) : 4.5€
Monument for 19 people at a time
