Fort de Bellegarde, Military fortress in Le Perthus, France.
Fort de Bellegarde is a military fortress located at 420 meters (1,380 feet) above Le Perthus with five bastions, ravelins, and ramparts built to defend the French-Spanish border. The fortification's walls enclose spaces that now house historical exhibits and archaeological discoveries.
Following the Treaty of the Pyrenees in 1659, engineer Vauban designed the fortress in 1678 to transform it into a major defensive structure against Spanish invasions. This construction marked a turning point in securing this border region.
The fortress displays French military architecture from the 17th century with advanced construction methods of that period. It shows how military engineers of the time designed border defenses.
The fortress is open to visitors between June and September, allowing exploration of exhibits and archaeological finds within the walls. Visitors should expect steep pathways on the grounds and wear sturdy shoes.
During World War II, German forces used the border fortress as a Gestapo prison for escaped inmates and enemy agents. This dark chapter remains an important part of the site's past.
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