Standing sixty metres high, the bell tower is the undisputed landmark of Lleida and the most important element of its urban silhouette.

Located within the structure of the cloister and built between the second third of the 14th century and the first third of the 15th century, it is octagonal in shape. Its main lure is to climb up to the viewpoint, which you can reach via a 238-step spiral staircase. Once at the top, you can enjoy panoramic views over the city and the surrounding landscape.

In addition to the staircase, the bell tower is shaped by a chapel dedicated to Saint Paul the Hermit and Saint Anthony the Abbot, with an entrance from the cloister. Above this chapel are four upper chambers that you can see as you climb the staircase. The first was allocated to the bell-ringers, who were responsible for ringing the bells, while the others were used for the clock mechanism and the bells, whether hourly or not. According to old records, eleven bells were used to announce feast days and days of mourning, although only two are preserved today: Silvestra and Monica. Silvestra, cast in 1418, marks the passing of the hours, while Monica, which dates from 1486, marks the quarters.

A further five bells, cast in the mid-twentieth century, ring together to mark the annual major festivities. They are called Barbara, Christ, Little Mary, Meuca and Purissima.

Monica bell

Silvestra bell