Citadelle de Bitche

At the bend of the first hills of the Northern Vosges, one can see the monumental, even charming silhouette of the Citadel of Bitche. Whether it is a terrible stone guardian or a mysterious ship rising out of a sea of fog, it seems to be in constant flux. Vauban and Cormontaigne were the most famous builders of this fortress, whose origins go back to the 12th century. If it has all the characteristics of the military architecture of the 17th and 18th centuries, this fortress can be proud of unique features. It shares its history with the city, which has grown up over the centuries in the comforting shadow of its mighty walls. Situated on a rock that was once of strategic interest, the citadel recalls a historical past marked by both glorious and tragic episodes. In its bowels is the memory of the men who bravely defended it in the uniforms of their respective countries.