Barrage Vauban, Bridge castle and barrage on the River Ill in Strasbourg, France
The Barrage Vauban stretches 120 meters across the River Ill with 13 arches built from pink Vosges sandstone. The structure combines military purpose with architectural appeal and defines the landscape of the Petite France district.
Jacques Tarade built the structure between 1686 and 1690 following plans by military engineer Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban. It was developed to protect the city and strengthen its defensive capabilities.
The interior corridor houses ancient plaster casts and statues from Strasbourg Cathedral and Palais Rohan displayed in a dedicated lapidarium. This collection makes the city's artistic treasures accessible and gives visitors insight into Strasbourg's rich art history.
The rooftop terrace offers views over the historical district and provides a pleasant break while exploring the area. Access to the structure is free and it's worth allowing time to climb up and find your way around.
Look for the two sets of embrasures just above the water on the points facing the Ponts Couverts towers, downstream of the barrage. They are most likely the slots of rupture batteries, meant to sink boats trying to force the passage, as in many fortified seaports.
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