Fort de La Hougue, Military fortress in Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue, France.
Fort de La Hougue is a fortress on a rocky outcrop off the coast of Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue, consisting of stone walls and a tower with cannon openings. The structure sits on an island and connects to the mainland through a long dike.
The fortress was built between 1694 and 1699 under Vauban's direction to defend the French coast from British attacks. This construction project was part of a broader strategy to strengthen defenses along the Normandy coast.
The fortress displays French engineering from the 17th century through its thick stone walls and cannon openings that remain visible today. This architecture reflects the military approach that emerged to protect the French coast from sea-based threats.
Access to the fortress is via a long dike connecting the rocky island to the mainland, which is walkable on foot. At high tide, the dike can become flooded, so check tidal conditions before making the walk.
This fort works in tandem with the nearby Fort Tatihou, forming a crossfire system that controlled access to the bay. This military design of opposing fortifications was a clever solution for coastal defense.
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