Babote’s Tower is one of the few preserved remnants of the 12th-century ramparts that once surrounded the city center. Having been converted into an observatory in the 1700s, the site now holds the South of France Amateur Astronomy Federation. Gaze up at this magnificent bastion, just south of the Place de la Comédie.
Inspect the well-preserved brick façade of this historic building. Notice the large arched entrance at its base and the intriguing upper tier, with an elegant terrace lying beneath additional doors and windows. Adjoining the side of the main building is a bridge with an arched base that leads to a narrow tower.
Examine the exterior of the building with a tour guide and speak with the docent about the legend involving the inventor of the parachute, Sebastian Lenormand. It is said he tested his invention by jumping from the roof of the tower.
Learn about the rich history of the structure, which was built as a corner of the fortifications that surrounded the old city center, known as L’Écusson. It was turned into an observatory in 1745 and used by the Academy of Sciences, before becoming part of the Royal Society of Sciences. It was first listed as a historical monument in the 1920s.
The tower is not generally open to the public, but can easily be seen from street level. Enjoy views of this historic structure from the comfort of one of the many restaurants just across the street.
Babote’s Tower is located near the Observatoire tram stop and the Gare Saint-Roch, right in the center of Montpellier. From the Place de la Comédie, walk south for a few minutes to get here. While in this central district, make sure to check out other surrounding sights such as the Montpellier National Opera, the Laser Quest Montpellier Comédie and the Antirouille arena.
