Briançon, Alpine fortress town in Hautes-Alpes, France
Briançon is a fortified commune at 1,326 meters elevation in the French Alps, positioned above the Durance river. Narrow streets climb steeply between stone walls while the twin-towered Notre Dame church rises above the historic center.
Romans founded Brigantium here as a passage through the Alps that later became a major defense point. France strengthened its military role during the medieval period by building several fortifications.
Residents use the old town hall for community events while local markets occupy the upper town squares. Painted sundials appear on narrow street facades, marking time as they have done for centuries.
The town serves as a starting point for summer hiking and winter skiing in Serre Chevalier. The center can be explored on foot, though sturdy shoes are recommended for steep climbs.
Three separate forts surround the town forming a connected defense network from the 18th century. Fort des Salettes sits on a rocky outcrop south of the old town while the other two installations guard the northern approaches.
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