Clovis Tower

In Angoulême, the Clovis Tower is a former tower of the medieval ramparts, best known for the famous “Leg of Clovis,” a stone sculpture embedded in its masonry. It is located on the Desaix rampart, below the Carnot statue.

Its History

According to tradition, in 508, the Frankish king Clovis I laid siege to Angoulême, which was then occupied by the Visigoths. The historian Gregory of Tours recounts that a procession carrying relics is said to have caused the miraculous collapse of a section of the ramparts, allowing the Franks to enter the city. During the battle, Clovis is said to have been wounded in the leg.

The “Leg of Clovis”

The sculpture depicts a human leg protruding from the city wall. It commemorates this legend of the capture of Angoulême. However, there is an interesting historical detail:

• the battle took place in 508;
• the tower where the sculpture stands today was built in the 13th century, several centuries after the events took place.

It is therefore unknown when the sculpture was added, but it has become a symbol of Angoulême’s heritage.

Where can you see it?

The Clovis Tower is located along the ramparts of Angoulême, on the Jérôme and Jean Tharaud Rampart / Desaix Rampart, near the Carnot statue.