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Religious building

St. Eloi Church and Its Belfry

Dunkerque, Opal Coast

About this place

Built in the 13th century to serve as a watchtower, the belfry also served as a landmark for fishermen in the town of Dunkirk.

In 1440, the Lord of Dunkirk, Robert de Bar, decided to raise the tower to its current height of 58 meters and turn it into the bell tower of Saint Eloi Church, which was built at the same time.

The current carillon dates from 1962; the previous one was lost in 1940 during the massive fire that destroyed the city and the floors of the belfry. It consists of 48 bells with a total weight of approximately 16 metric tons; the largest bell, “Jean Bart,” weighs 7 metric tons on its own.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005, the belfry consists of six stories and tapers gradually: it measures 15 meters wide at the base and 8 meters at the top. You’ll find the city’s tourist office at its base, and by taking the elevator, you’ll be able to discover Dunkirk’s most important landmarks thanks to the panoramic view. The Cenotaph, located at the base of the belfry, pays tribute to all victims of war.

Built in the 15th century, St. Eloi Church was designed in the shape of a Latin cross with a transept.

In 1558, during the Spanish occupation, French forces, led by Marshal des Thermes, invaded the city, burning and devastating everything in their path; only the tower escaped destruction. A new church was rebuilt in a different style (Gothic). Only a vault connected the church to the belfry, providing a passageway for pedestrians.

It was not until 1787 that the church was permanently separated from the belfry. It therefore had to be adorned with a façade. The first was designed by the Parisian architect Victor Louis. The current façade dates from 1894 and was designed by Van Moë.

This church sustained extensive damage during both world wars and was restored after each one.

It has been designated a historic monument since 1916.

What to do nearby?

Upcoming events in Dunkerque.

Culture 1 August → 30 September

Traditional Shipbuilding on the Opal Coast

Dunkerque

Traditional shipbuilding from the Opal Coast awaits you in Dunkirk on August 1, 2026. This exhibition immerses you in the world of traditional boatbuilding along our coastline, particularly the flobart and the dundee. You’ll discover the different stages of building a boat, from design to launch. The exhibition offers you the opportunity to explore the skills and techniques used by boatbuilders on the Opal Coast. This will give you a deeper understanding of our region’s history and culture. This cultural event is a unique experience not to be missed by enthusiasts of maritime history and local heritage.
Culture 1 August → 30 September

Shipyards: A Photographic Archive of Dunkirk's Industrial History

Dunkerque

Shipyards are an important part of the past and present of the Port of Dunkirk. The exhibition “Shipyards: Photographic Archives of Dunkirk’s Industrial History” brings together photographs from the museum’s collections and highlights several major shipyards: Ziegler, Ateliers et Chantiers de France, and Béliard & Crighton. The exhibition continues with contemporary photographs taken during the restoration of the three-masted ship Duchesse Anne at the Damen shipyard.
category.Découverte 6 August

Walking Tour of the Port

Dunkerque

Walking Tour of the Port On August 6, 2026, explore the port of Dunkirk on foot with this 2.5-hour guided tour. The 6.3-kilometer route takes you through the East Port, offering impressive views of port activity. You’ll pass close by the Trystram and Watier locks, walk alongside the Risban Lighthouse, and pass in front of the Damen floating dock. This walking tour will give you a behind-the-scenes look at the Port of Dunkirk. Admission fee applies; reservations required.

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