Fort Catinat du Larmont supérieur, Military fortification in Pontarlier, France.
Fort Catinat du Larmont supérieur is a military fortification located on Larmont mountain at 1,170 meters altitude above Pontarlier. The structure features a defensive ditch on three sides and overlooks the Swiss border and the surrounding valleys below.
The fort was built between 1880 and 1883 as part of the Séré de Rivières defensive system along the Swiss border. It formed a linked defensive network with Fort Larmont inférieur and Fort de Joux to protect the frontier.
The fort carries the name of Marshal Nicolas de Catinat, a French military commander, reflecting its strategic importance in border defense. The site shows how France secured its boundaries with Switzerland through such structures.
Access to the fort requires a walk through mountainous terrain, so sturdy footwear and weather-appropriate clothing are advisable for this exposed location. The site sits high in the mountains where weather can change quickly and conditions may be challenging.
In June 1940, a small force of 130 soldiers defended the fort against German attacks and retained the right to keep their weapons upon surrender. This unusual surrender condition makes the fort notable in French military history.
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