Fort de Fouras, Fouras, France

The 'Vauban Fortress' of Foras was initially a strategic fortification established by Philip the Fair, circa 1300. The donjon was rebuilt in 1480-1490 by Jehan II de Brosse.

The creation of the Rochefort Dockyard in 1666 made it a centrepiece of the system for defending the approaches of the Charente, which is prohibited from entering. At the end of the 17th century, François Ferry, the engineer of King Louis XIV, transformed the old feudal residence into the fort. In 1689, Ferry reinforced the walls of the Donjon to set up a battery of 9 canons and a signaling point. In 1693 a lower circular battery was set up to control access to the river Charente. The donjon received a signal station from 1889 to World War II.

Today classified as a Historical Monument, the castle houses a museum of regional history. Free entrance or guided tour of the fortification and the underground parts of the keep at 2 p.m every day (except Monday) between June 1st and the third weekend of September.

Castles and fortifications in France

User Reviews

Seth Yates (2 years ago)
Interesting historical landmark which can be climbed offering great views of the islands of the Charante-Maritime region from the top of the tower.

Cheryl Thorne (2 years ago)
Loved walking around here. Lovely old fort, free entry just on the beach. It was really cold when we went so had to wrap up. well worth a visit.

George Nott (2 years ago)
Interesting enough. Easy parking in early January!!

Sarah Bouché de Vitray (3 years ago)
It was a really nice discovery especially at this time of the year it was so peaceful and the weather was perfect to admire the Vue from the roof. This is just beside the main beach and a car park.

Philip (3 years ago)
500 free parkings spots, there seems to be some hospitality inside (not verified by me). If you are Fouras it is worth to check out the promenade and get some ice cream. The view on the famous Fort Boyard is nice but be aware you are far away from it.

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Photo from Flickr, copyright Zvonimir Hrvoj

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