L'horloge fleurie

L'horloge fleurie, Geneva's Flower Clock, is one of the city's most photographed sights. A huge dial built from living plants sits on the western side of the Jardin Anglais park, right beside Lake Geneva.

What is the Flower Clock in Geneva?

It is a working clock whose dial is planted rather than painted or printed. Flowers form the pattern on a lawn, and hands sweep above it. The time it shows is synchronised by satellite, so despite its decorative look it is a genuine precision timepiece, not just an ornament.

Why was it created?

The clock was installed in 1955 as a tribute to Geneva's watchmaking craft. For centuries the city has been a symbol of Swiss horology, and a floral dial in the heart of town is a friendly, visitor-ready way to celebrate that heritage. It quickly became a standard stop on any visit to the city.

What to look for

• The seconds hand. It measures 2.5 metres and is regarded as the longest of its kind in the world.
• Changing plants. The planting is redesigned each season, so the dial looks different depending on when you come. Spring and summer are the most colourful.
• Hands donated by Patek Philippe. In 2017 the clock was refreshed with a new floral concept. The city received new, elegantly shaped hands as a gift from Patek Philippe, one of Geneva's best-known watchmakers.

The Jardin Anglais setting

The Jardin Anglais was laid out on land reclaimed from the lake after the old city fortifications were pulled down. It was the first park in Geneva designed in the English style, with winding paths and trees planted without strict alignment. Originally called the Promenade du Lac, it remains a popular place for a lakeside stroll. Because the clock stands close to the water, photos of the dial often include the lake and city skyline behind it.

Planning your visit

Entry is open, and the clock can be viewed at any hour since it stands in the open space of the park. Morning and late afternoon often give the best light for photos. A visit usually takes only a few minutes, so it combines well with a walk along the quays and into the old town. Public transport reaches the area easily, with a stop near the park.

Frequently asked questions

Does the clock show the correct time? Yes. It is set by satellite signal, so it is accurate.

When was the Flower Clock created? In 1955, as a tribute to Geneva's watchmaking industry.

Is there an admission fee? No. It stands in a public park and is free to see.

Does it always look the same? No. The planting is redone each season, so every visit can bring a different look.

Where exactly is it? On the western side of the Jardin Anglais, by the lake, in central Geneva.