La Citadelle Vauban

Vauban Citadel

Built between 1668 and 1672 according to Vauban’s plans, the Citadel of Arras is a remarkable example of 17th-century military architecture. Barracks, an arsenal and the Baroque-style Saint Louis Chapel complete this outstanding complex.

The Citadel of Arras is one of the earliest works of Sébastien Le Preste, Marquis de Vauban, the renowned military engineer of King Louis XIV. It formed part of the famous “pré carré”, a double line of fortified towns designed to protect the northern frontier of the kingdom from east to west. Arras occupied a position in the second defensive line of this system.

Although it never had to withstand a siege or play a significant defensive role, the citadel remains impressive for the quality of its design and architecture. Vauban himself nicknamed it “The Beautiful Useless One”.

Having been spared the destruction of war, it remains one of the finest examples of a star-shaped lowland fortress designed by Vauban.

The Vauban fortifications, including the Citadel of Arras and eleven other major sites, have been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 7 July 2008.