Citadel Vauban
The sheer scale and exquisite design of the Citadel Vauban can only really be appreciated from above. Constructed in the shape of a 5-pointed star, each bastioned point thrusts out from a central complex and is joined, one to another by ramparts.
Still occupied by the French military, the present citadel was commissioned by Louis XIV after Lille was taken by the French in 1668 and is built on the site of an earlier fortification. Work began immediately to a design put forward by one of the greatest military engineers of his time, Sebastien Le Pestre de Vauban. All other building work in Lille was stopped and every builder in the region was drafted in; as a result the Citadel Vauban was completed in just four years.
Over the centuries work has been carried out to modernise the facilities whilst retaining the strength and architectural heritage of the original building.
Considered to be the finest military fortification designed by Vauban, it is often referred to as the “Queen of all Citadels”.
Surrounding the citadel is Lille’s largest park the Bois de Boulogne Woods which itself is encircled by the Deûle canal. Always open to visitors there are some truly remarkable trees to be seen including the Montpellier Maple, a Corsican pine and even a Giant Sequoia.
In a quiet corner of the Woods is Lille Zoo housing about 400 animals representing 80 different species including monkeys, zebras, panthers and some rare birds.
The Citadel Vauban may only be visited as part of a guided tour organised by the Tourist Office in Lille however the Bois de Boulogne Woods are always open and the zoo is free, making it a great day out for all the family.
Plan your visit to Citadel Vauban, Lille
- Lille Hotels - view and book a wide choice of accommodation convenient for the Citadel Vauban
