This municipality south of Madrid has something in common with European cities such as Prague, Munich, and Strasbourg. All of them have large automaton clocks in their squares, and now Leganés is bringing its own back into operation.
Next Monday, January 19, the Leganés carillon will mark the hours on the façade of the Town Hall, located in the town’s main square. After more than 12 years out of service, the ensemble is regaining its urban spectacle, with an inauguration scheduled for 12 noon.
19th-century French machinery
Jean-François Junod working on clock mechanisms. | Editorial credit: François Junod
This clock is considered the largest in Spain and has 24 bronze bells and six automatons measuring almost two meters. The mechanism has a 15-meter track, on which the figures move to the rhythm of the music, combining engineering, art, and tradition.
The system was designed by the prestigious Swiss master Jean-François Junod, who used 19th-century French machinery and bells cast in Holland. It was inaugurated in 2006, with an investment of over one million euros, but has not been well maintained since then.
The great bell had not rung for more than a decade, and Leganés has brought it back to life through a complete restoration, which is intended to be the definitive repair. To do this, they have used technology with an electric motor and GPS antenna, which help to ensure the punctuality of the show.
A symbol of Leganés
The pegonero and soccer as symbols of Leganés’ identity. | Editorial credit: Shutterstock and Leganés City Council
The figures on the clock reflect Madrid tradition, with easily recognizable symbols. Among the automatons is an elderly person, symbolizing the city’s longevity, and two young people playing with a ball, in a clear reference to Leganés’ commitment to soccer.
As a nod to tradition, a horse and a Goyesque woman stand out, representing Madrid’s roots and elegance. In the center, a town crier with his trumpet stands out, reminiscent of the person who was in charge of spreading messages and announcements throughout the square.
Very soon, all these characters will move to the rhythm of the music as part of the city’s living heritage. According to the mayor of Leganés, Miguel Ángel Recuenco, from the town hall, “it is not just a repair, but a clear commitment to the identity and urban memory of the city.”