Fort Villeras, Military fort in Saclay, France
Fort Villeras is a military fortress built as part of a defensive system around Paris. The complex spans several hectares and is surrounded by a deep moat, with numerous rooms and storage areas throughout its interior.
The fortress was built after France's defeat in the 1871 war against Prussia as a protective measure. It became part of a wide defensive network designed to protect Paris and the surrounding region.
The name 'Villeras' comes from a local family that once owned the land. Visitors can now walk through rooms that show how soldiers lived and worked within the fortress during the military era.
The location is easily accessible and mostly flat, making it straightforward to walk around. Visitors should plan adequate time to explore the grounds since the site is quite expansive.
Since the 1940s, the fortress has served as a testing ground for aircraft engines under the French Ministry of Defense. This transformation shows how military structures adapt and find new purposes across different eras.
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