Fort Vauban, also known as the citadel of Alès, is a remarkable historic building in the heart of the city. With its origins dating back to the 12th century, it is the oldest building in the region. Erected in 1688 following the Revocation of the Edict of Nantes, the citadel was built on the butte de la Roque, dominating the city of Alès.
The fort features a unique U-shaped structure. Covering an area of 1,500 m² on three levels, it features 350 meters of ramparts, 6 bastions and 40 embrasures facing the city. Comprising two separate buildings, the south side housed the governor's quarters, staff quarters and a chapel, while the other part was reserved for the garrison and could also be used as a prison. In the center of the fort, an imposing ramp-on-ramp staircase was designed by the chief engineer.
Although only the defensive wall has been listed as a Historic Monument since 1973, Fort Vauban has unfortunately witnessed some dark events. During the First and Second World Wars, it was used as a place of detention and torture for many prisoners. The Maison d'Arrêt located there finally closed its doors in June 1990, leaving behind a painful past.
Today, Fort Vauban remains a symbol of the region's military history, as well as a place of remembrance recalling the dark hours of the past.
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