Citadelle de Sisteron, Medieval citadel in Sisteron, France
The Citadelle de Sisteron perches on a rocky outcrop where fortified walls command views over the Durance valley below. The site contains several towers, bastions, and underground passages that reflect different defensive strategies built over centuries.
Construction occurred in phases spanning the 13th to 16th centuries, with each era adding new defensive methods. These layers show how military technology shifted and how the location adapted its protective capabilities.
The site serves as a performance venue where theater and music unfold within ancient walls today. This use brings the stones to life and draws people who want to experience the place's layered past.
Access involves stairs and pathways kept in steady condition, allowing visitors to explore different levels throughout the grounds. Sturdy footwear is wise, especially in wet or windy conditions, as the upper areas are exposed to the elements.
A stairway carved directly into the bedrock descends toward the town and dates from the 19th century. This hidden passage shows how residents once sought to make the descent more practical.
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