It was built from 1667 to 1670 by Sebastian on Prestre, Marquis de Vauban, on the orders of Louis XIV who had just conquered the city. It becomes part of the Pré Carré, double line of forts stretching from the North Sea to the Meuse to protect the borders. It is a true city within a city, surrounded by bastions forming a five-pointed star. Described as "Queen of Citadels", Vauban himself said it was the finest and most accomplished of the kingdom. It is both a masterpiece of fortification, urban art and architecture French.
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