Royal Destination Citadel of Lille in France

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On the west of the city of Lille, the capital of the Hauts-de France region,
a beautiful citadel was constructed to defend the city and even the very
important border between France and Belgium.

The amazing history of the citadel of Lille went even back till King
Louis XIV of France!

Citadel of Lille own picture taken in 2018


Some Royal History

In 1667, Lille was taken from Spain by French troops and King Louis
XIV of France immediately ordered the construction of a fortress. Two
building masters proposed plans: Louis Nicolas de Clerville and Vauban.
Vauban's plans were chosen by the King.


King Louis XIV of France
Source picture: Wikipedia


Vauban - Source picture: Wikipedia


The construction work of the citadel started already in 1668 under the
direction of Lille's master mason, Simon Vollant.

In 1671, the citadel became operational while Vauban continued to shape
the city by constructing, a new neighborhood around the Rue Royale.

Citadel of Lille, France own picture taken in 2018


Design

 The design of the Citadel of Lille follows a simple but very effective idea:
not one of its walls can be approached by the enemy without them being
under fire from a nearby wall.

It was constructed on the marshland at the junction of the rivers Deûle and
Bucquet. This was good to use the swamp water and mud as natural
defense to make conditions more difficult for any possible enemy
besieging the citadel.

The Citadel of Lille was mentioned as the 'Queen of the Citadels' by
Vauban. It is remarkable for its size, the quality of the architecture and
the state of preservation today.

Citadel of Lille in France - own picture taken in 2018


A historic monument

The Citadel of Lille was classified as historic monument in 1914,1921 and
1934.

Citadel of Lille in France - own picture taken in 2018



Military role

 In 1708 the Citadel of Lille played an important role during the war with Spain.
Spanish soldiers could take the city of Lille but not the Citadel.

In 1792, during the French Revolution the Citadel of Lille played an important
role too. Then 350.000 Austrian soldiers besieged the city, but they couldn't
win from the French.

Citadel of Lille - own picture taken in 2018


A visit

The Citadel of Lille really is worth a visit not only because of its Royal history
but for its military role too. Besides that, the area is a fantastic place for long
walks.
Location: Rijsel, Frankrijk

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