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Citadelle de Besançon is a window into France’s royal and medieval past. Locate it on the map, book a room nearby in a click, or add it to your travel list to build your itinerary.
About Citadelle de Besançon
The Citadel of Besançon is a historic fortress located in the city of Besançon, in eastern France. It was built by the French architect Vauban in the 17th century to protect the city and its strategic location on the Doubs River. The Citadel is one of Vauban's most impressive works and is considered a masterpiece of military architecture. The fortress covers an area of 11 hectares and features numerous buildings, including barracks, stables, and a chapel. The central building is a massive donjon or keep, which is over 30 meters tall and dominates the skyline of the city. Visitors can climb to the top of the donjon for a spectacular view of the city and the surrounding countryside. The Citadel also includes a museum dedicated to the history of the site and the region. The museum displays a collection of weapons, uniforms, and other artifacts related to the military history of Besançon and the surrounding area. Today, the Citadel is a popular tourist attraction and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It also hosts various cultural events and exhibitions throughout the year, including concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions.
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