Fort Vauban

Fort Vauban, also known locally as Fort d'Alès, stands majestically on the hill of La Roque, overlooking the vibrant city of Alès in the Gard department of France. This historical fortress, with its imposing stone walls and strategic location, offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's tumultuous past and architectural ingenuity.

The Historical Background of Fort Vauban

The origins of Fort Vauban trace back to the 12th century when the site was first fortified. The hill of La Roque became the seat of the villa of Alès, towering above the episcopal center below. By the 1170s, the seigneurie was divided between the Pelet d'Alès and the Bernard d'Anduze families, leading to the development of two distinct castle complexes on the same site. These were marked by two tall towers: the Peletine Tower held by the Pelet family and the Royal Tower, which belonged to the King of France from 1236 to 1343.

In the 14th century, the town of Alès itself was enclosed by walls. Over time, the Pelet family’s portion became known as the barony and later the viscounty, while the other portion evolved into a county under the Montmorency family. During the 1570s and 1580s, Henri I de Montmorency occupied the town, renovated the comital castle, and acquired the baronial part, reuniting the seigneurie for the first time in four centuries. However, both castles fell into ruin due to the religious wars and the siege of the town in 1621.

The Construction of Fort Vauban

In the aftermath of Gaston d'Orléans' revolt, the towers were demolished in 1632, and the stones were repurposed for other constructions, including the collegiate church of Saint-Jean. By the time the construction of Fort Vauban was proposed, only the baronial castle and the Sainte-Anne Tower of the comital castle remained. The fortifications of Nîmes, Saint-Hippolyte-du-Fort, and Alès were promoted by the intendant of Basville, who aimed to swiftly respond to Protestant assemblies.

In 1686, following the revocation of the Edict of Nantes, the decision was made to build a fort in Alès. François Ferry was appointed as the chief engineer to oversee the project, with Michel Raulet recruiting local architects and contractors. Although the fortifications bear Vauban's name, Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban never visited the site. The construction proceeded rapidly, and by 1688, the fort was completed, housing a royal garrison and serving as a prison for Protestants.

The Architectural Features of Fort Vauban

Fort Vauban is characterized by its U-shaped structure, comprising two main buildings. The southern building served as the residence for the governor and the state major, opening onto a terrace added later. The other building housed the garrison and could also function as a prison. At the center of the fort, a grand staircase with a ramp on each side connects the wings.

The defensive features of the fort are particularly impressive. The engineer designed six small bastions, around forty cannon embrasures, a moat, and a staircase entrance from the city covered by a half-moon attached to the main structure. Additionally, a secondary gate defended by a drawbridge and a grille on the counterscarp was included. The bastions, with their watchtowers, gate, and access bridge, were listed as historical monuments on May 24, 1973.

The Evolution of Fort Vauban

Over the centuries, Fort Vauban underwent several changes in ownership and function. During the French Revolution, the fort was used as a prison. In 1804, a decree abolished military posts like Fort Vauban, and in 1810, another decree transferred ownership of military buildings to the cities where they were located. The town of Alès received the fort, which was used for various purposes, including housing workshops for charity and prisoner labor.

In 1818, the War Department reclaimed the barracks, and the fort continued to serve military purposes. By the late 19th century, the fort was divided between the town and the War Department, with the town using part of it for public utilities, including a museum, while the other part remained a prison. The prison closed permanently in June 1990, and the fort is now owned by the Gard department.

Visiting Fort Vauban Today

Today, Fort Vauban stands as a testament to the region's rich history and architectural heritage. Visitors can explore its well-preserved structures, including the bastions, gates, and the grand staircase. The fort offers a unique opportunity to delve into the past and understand the strategic importance of such fortifications in the history of Alès.

As you wander through the fort, imagine the lives of those who once inhabited its walls, from the soldiers and governors to the prisoners who endured its confines. The fort's storied past is a reminder of the region's resilience and the many chapters of its history that have unfolded within these stone walls.

In conclusion, Fort Vauban is not just a historical monument; it is a symbol of the enduring legacy of Alès. Its walls echo the stories of centuries past, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. Whether you are drawn by its architectural beauty or its rich history, Fort Vauban promises an unforgettable experience.