Fort de Brescou, Fort on the Île de Brescou near Agde, France

Fort de Brescou is a fortification on a small islet off the Mediterranean coast, featuring thick stone walls and defensive structures built in classical military style. The complex consists of several bastions and inner courtyards that organize the grounds.

Construction began in 1586 under the Vicomte de Joyeuse to defend the coast. After destruction in 1632 during a revolt, the structure was rebuilt in the 1680s following designs by military engineer Vauban.

The fort's chapel, bakery, cellar and canteen once served both the garrison and the prisoners held here. The walkway around the ramparts was used as a promenade for prisoners allowed out for air. The round Tour Sainte-Anne, a remnant of the first fort, now carries the modern lighthouse.

The only landing point is a small beach between the Luneton de la Porte and the Saint-André bastion, reached by a short jetty; the rest of the islet is rock. The fort lies about half a nautical mile from the entrance to Port Richelieu at Cap d'Agde, so it is seen from a boat. The island belonged to the military until 1889 and is now municipal property.

The islet is the only island in the Languedoc-Roussillon region and covers just 0.5 hectares. Its volcanic origin is not visible in the fort itself, but the rock provided a natural base for the four irregular bastions. The modern lighthouse stands on a large round tower that likely belonged to the first fort.