Hôtel de Ville de Lille et son beffroi

The Town Hall was built between 1924 and 1932 by architect Emile Dubuisson, who drew his inspiration from the Flemish tradition of triangular gabled houses, while using a resolutely modern material: reinforced concrete. The interior features a 107-meter-long hall, punctuated by two rows of floral pillars. An exceptional collection of contemporary art adorns the staircases, corridors and municipal rooms. The most spectacular fresco is by Icelandic artist Erro, which tells the story of the city in comic strip form. A symbol of the freedom of northern cities, its 104-metre-high belfry is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The two founding giants of the city, Lyderic and Phinaert, are sculpted on its base. Open Tuesday to Sunday (except January 1, May 1 and December 25) from 10am to 1pm and from 2pm to 5:30pm, by reservation only (reservation required: 10am, for other times go directly to the site). Last lift in the morning at 12.15pm and 4.45pm in the afternoon. Access: The Town Hall was built between 1924 and 1932 by architect Emile Dubuisson, who drew his inspiration from the Flemish tradition of triangular gabled houses, while using a resolutely modern material: reinforced concrete. The interior features a 107-meter-long hall, punctuated by two rows of floral pillars. An exceptional collection of contemporary art adorns the staircases, corridors and municipal rooms. The most spectacular fresco is by Icelandic artist Erro, which tells the story of the city in comic strip form. Access: Metro line 2, "Mairie de Lille" station