The Citadel of Blaye, built in 1639, sits on the Gironde Estuary, on the opposite bank from Fort Médoc, with Fort Pâté on an island in the middle. The three fortifications, designed by famous military engineer Sebastien de Vauban, form the Bolt of the Estuary, also known as Fortifications of Vauban. Built on the orders of Louis XIV, its aim was to protect the city of Bordeaux. The Fortifications are classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The largest of the three fortresses, Blaye has both landward and seaward defences with dry ditches dug out of the rock. There are commanding views of the surrounding land and water.
The site of the Citadel was first occupied by a 7th century castle, the ruins of which lie within the fortifications.
Access to the citadel is by foot through porte Dauphine to the south or by car through Porte Royale to the east. There are guided tours, which take you through the citadel tunnels, every day. They leave from the tourist office which is found in the citadelat rue du couvent de Minimes; tel 05 57 42 12 09.
The Citadel of Blayye is included in Tango's 6-night, all inclusive Bordeaux River Cruise. Visit
CanalsofFrance.com for details.
Photo credit - all photos Dawn M. Shepherd
