What is a west tower?

A west tower is a church tower standing at the west end of a church. In Dutch it is called “westelijke toren” or “westtoren”. The term is mainly used for medieval churches. The tower may stand free, be built against the nave or form part of a larger westwork.

Why the west?

Traditional churches are usually “oriented”: the chancel with the altar lies to the east, towards the rising sun. The main entrance is then opposite, at the west end. A tower above or beside that entrance marks the way in and is visible from afar.

Forms

• Single west tower: one tower on the axis of the nave, often with the main door at its base. Common in parish churches.
• Twin west towers: two towers that together form the west front, mainly on large churches and cathedrals.
• Westwork: a broad, multi-storey western block with one or more towers, mainly from the Carolingian and Romanesque periods.
• Detached tower: where the church body was later demolished or rebuilt.

Function

• Bell and clock tower.
• Landmark and symbol of the village or town.
• Formerly sometimes a lookout or refuge.

Points for maintenance and conversion

1. Inspection at height: have pointing, louvred openings, spire and leadwork checked periodically.
2. Bell vibration: ringing heavy bells loads the masonry and bell frame. Cracks around belfry openings can be a sign.
3. Ownership: tower and church do not always have the same owner. Check before a sale or conversion.
4. Listed status: many west towers are listed, so works often need consent.

Related terms

• Westwork
• Crossing tower
• Tower window
• Belled tower
• Listed building

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