Fort de la Motte-Giron, Military fort in Dijon, France.
Fort de la Motte-Giron is a military fortification on the Bel Air plateau above Dijon with an irregular pentagonal shape and thick stone walls. The structure spans several hectares and was equipped with cannons and mortars to strengthen its defensive position.
The fortress was built between 1874 and 1876 as part of Dijon's defense system against potential threats from the east. During World War I, it gained new importance as a prison camp for high-ranking enemy officers.
The fort served as a training center and held captured German officers during World War I. It reflects the military importance France placed on protecting its borders and internal security during that period.
The fort is accessible via Avenue Gustave Eiffel, where a path leads directly to the main entrance and provides good access to the site. It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes since the terrain is hilly and you will be walking on the plateau.
The fort contains specialized defensive structures in its moats, including caponniers, which represent advanced military engineering of the 19th century. These underground or semi-underground structures allowed defenders to control the moats and block access to the fort.
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