Between the coast and the High Alps lie the fortifications and citadels, defences against invasions from the sea and across the Alpine borders.
An important figure and a builder of genius, Vauban was often the master builder for these edifices built in exceptional sites.
A close-up on the fortified mountains and hills such as the fort of Tournoux, the most beautiful example of military architecture in the valley, will astound you. Situated in the Haute-Ubaye, close to the Condamine-le-Chatelard, it rises in tiers on a height difference of 700m and is similar to a miniature Wall of China. The lower fort is characterized by its battlements perched on the mountainside. The upper fort is an old cannon blockhouse transformed into barracks. The site dominates the valley at an altitude of 1700 m on the Col du Vars route. Memorable sight: the stairs dug into the rock.
Sites of collective memory and military history, the Alpine forts are also architectural wonders. Again Vauban toiled there on these fortified constructions, with Briançon, the highest town in France, in the lead with its formidable citadel. Strongholds of the peaks, Montdauphin, Colmars and the fortress of Ubaye are also worth a detour.
Watching over the sea, the ports have always been coveted for their strategic position.
Toulon is a superb example of this, famous for its arsenal, built by Vauban, and its magnificent harbour.
Lining the clear gulfs, forts and citadels have found a new educational or contemplative role today.
©CRT PACA / R. Schetter