Its tower is standing, as far as the upper part of the sun-dial, whilst the four admirable gargoyles which project at the corners, and the graceful curve of the pointed windows of its first storey, escaped injury.
BÉTHUNE. THE GRANDE PLACE. After the Bombardments
The remains of the spiral staircase leading to the top may still be seen, but the 15th century wooden spire has gone.
BÉTHUNE. RUINS OF THE HÔTEL-DE-VILLE
This spire contained a peal of bells, one of which, dated 1576, was called "La Joyeuse."
"La Joyeuse" is silenced for ever.
This peal gave its name to the street behind the belfry, which leads to the Church of St. Waast (1533—1545), whose massive tower was more than half-a-century later than the rest of the building.