Rocroi, commune in Ardennes, France
Rocroi is a small town in France's Ardennes region, built on a plateau at 400 meters (1,300 feet) elevation, known for its distinctive star-shaped fortifications from the 16th century. The town is laid out in a radio-concentric design with ten streets radiating from the central square, creating a rare urban pattern that can be seen clearly from above.
The settlement grew around a chapel founded in 1198 and initially served forest workers. In the 16th century under Henry II, fortifications were built that became strategically important during the Thirty Years' War when the town became a key defensive position.
The town's name comes from a cross erected by a feudal lord in 1198, around which a chapel and settlement grew. Walking through its radial streets today, visitors can see how daily life is organized around the central square, with local craftspeople and small shops reflecting traditions that have endured for centuries.
The town is best explored on foot through its narrow streets that radiate from the central square. A marked heritage walking route along the ramparts helps visitors understand the fortifications and layout while taking in views of the surrounding countryside.
Rocroi is one of only two places in Europe with a fully preserved star-shaped fortification system, the other being Palmanova in Italy. This exceptional rarity makes it a singular example of specialized military architecture that survives intact from centuries past.
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