Citadel of Lille, Military fortress in Lille, France
The pentagonal citadel incorporates three million stone blocks and sixty million bricks, forming a complex defensive structure with walls, moats, and fortifications.
Constructed between 1667 and 1670 under architect Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban's direction after Lille became French territory following the Peace Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle.
The fortress features classical architectural elements including representations of French royal power through stone carvings of fleur-de-lys, crowns, and solar symbols.
The Citadel maintains military functions as headquarters for the Rapid Reaction Corps-France while offering guided tours through the Lille Tourist Office.
The defensive system includes water gates and locks that could flood 1,700 hectares of surrounding land up to 55 centimeters deep during potential attacks.
Location: Lille
Inception: January 1, 1670
Architects: Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban
Address: avenue du 43e-Régiment-d'Infanterie 59800 Lille
Phone: +33320495070
Website: https://parcdelacitadelle.lille.fr
GPS coordinates: 50.64111,3.04444
Latest update: May 27, 2025 09:50
From converted industrial spaces to historical buildings, Lille offers numerous photography locations away from main tourist sites. The city features Art Nouveau architecture, Gothic monuments, cultural venues in former factories, and green spaces. Notable spots include the Art Deco swimming pool museum in Roubaix, the modern art museum LaM, and the Wazemmes market district.
Zoologic park de Lille
379 m
Jardin Vauban
591 m
Église Saint-André de Lille
800 m
Les Fusillés lillois
636 m
Pont Napoléon
600 m
Les chutes de la Citadelle
404 m
Esplanade du Champ-de-Mars
346 m
Cita-Parc
405 m
Couvent des Minimes de Lille
795 m
Les Poussins, Parc de la Citadelle
371 m
Ancien couvent des Minines
895 m
Porte de Dunkerque
565 m
Magasins généraux de Lille
836 m
Van der Cruisse de Waziers Mansion
830 m
Hôtel de Lamissart
827 m
Le P'tit Jacques
525 m
Hôtel du 52 façade de l'Esplanade
677 m
Square Daubenton
631 m
Hôtel Catel-Béghin
795 m
Hôtel Castiaux
642 m
Pulpit of Église Saint-André de Lille
800 m
Église Notre-Dame-de-Consolation de Lille
794 m
Monument au Pigeon Voyageur
523 m
Hôtel particulier, 25, rue du Lieutenant-Colpin
672 m
Wallaert Mansion
831 m
Les villes bastionnées des Pays-Bas du nord-ouest de l'Europe
359 m
Maison, 77 rue de la Barre
766 m
Parc des Pyramides
605 mReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes