Philippe le Bon Tower

The Philippe le Bon Tower, also known locally as Tour Philippe le Bon or Tour de la Terrasse, is a prominent medieval tower located in the center of Dijon, within the Côte-d'Or department of France. This tower forms part of the historic Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy, a site of immense cultural and architectural significance. The tower's origins are deeply rooted in the evolution of fortifications on this site, which dates back to the Roman era.

Historical background and early fortifications

The site of the Philippe le Bon Tower was originally occupied by a Gallo-Roman castrum, a fortified military camp that laid the foundation for later medieval structures. By the 9th century, during the formation of the Duchy of Burgundy from the Kingdom of Burgundy, a simple ducal castle was established here, utilizing the existing Roman walls. This early medieval fortification marked the beginning of the site's transformation from a military stronghold to a ducal residence.

In the 12th century, the castle saw the construction of a stone watchtower known as Briancon, built on the remains of one of the castrum's original towers. This period also witnessed the gradual evolution of the castle into a more palatial structure, reflecting the increasing importance and prestige of the Burgundian dukes.

The ducal palace and tower developments in the late medieval period

The late 14th century brought significant changes under Duke Philip the Bold (Philip II, Duke of Burgundy), who began a comprehensive rebuilding of the palace starting in 1365. Among the new constructions was a three-storey residential tower called the Tour Neuve (New Tower), which enhanced the palace's defensive and residential capabilities.

Philip the Bold's successor, Philip the Good (Philippe le Bon), who became Duke in 1396, further developed the site. Notably, he used the New Tower as a prison for René of Anjou, Duke of Bar and Anjou and Count of Provence, from July 1431 to May 1432. René's imprisonment was part of the complex political struggles of the time, and after a temporary release where his sons were held hostage, René was re-imprisoned in 1434 until his release two years later upon payment of a substantial ransom. This tower subsequently became known as the Tour de Bar (Bar Tower) in reference to this episode.

Construction of the Philippe le Bon Tower

Around 1460, Philip the Good commissioned the construction of the Tour de la Terrasse on the site of the old Briancon Tower. The architect Jean Poncelet designed this imposing structure in the shape of a slightly curved trapezoid. The tower rises to a height of 46 meters and comprises six floors. Initially intended as a watchtower, it gradually came to symbolize the power and prestige of the Dukes of Burgundy. Over time, it became known as the Philippe le Bon Tower in honor of its patron duke.

Architectural features and style

The Philippe le Bon Tower is an excellent example of late medieval military architecture with elements that reflect its dual role as a defensive structure and a symbol of ducal authority. The tower's trapezoidal plan is unusual and was likely designed to maximize defensive capabilities while providing commanding views over the city of Dijon and the surrounding landscape.

The tower's six floors include various chambers and spaces that would have served both residential and military functions. Its height and strategic location within the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy made it a key point for surveillance and defense.

Later uses and current status

In the 18th century, the Philippe le Bon Tower was repurposed as an astronomical observatory, reflecting the changing needs and interests of the city and its rulers. This adaptation illustrates the tower's continued importance beyond its original military and residential functions.

Today, the Palace of the Dukes serves as the city hall of Dijon and houses a museum of fine arts. The Philippe le Bon Tower is accessible to visitors through guided tours, which include a climb up a long spiral staircase to the top, offering spectacular panoramic views of Dijon. Visitors should note that the tower does not have an elevator, and the interior rooms are not open for public viewing. The adjacent Bar Tower remains visible only from the outside.

Visiting the Philippe le Bon Tower

Tourists interested in medieval architecture and Burgundian history find the Philippe le Bon Tower a compelling destination. The climb to the summit is moderately challenging due to the medieval spiral staircase but is rewarded with breathtaking vistas over the historic city center and its surroundings. The tower's location within the Palace complex makes it convenient to explore alongside other historical and cultural attractions in Dijon.