Citadel of Blaye
Citadelle de Blaye
A star-shaped estuary fortress designed by Vauban, one of the UNESCO 'Fortifications of Vauban' sites, overlooking the mouth of the Gironde.
Located on the right bank of the Gironde estuary about 50 kilometers north of Bordeaux, the fortress was designed by Vauban in the 17th century. Together with Fort Pâté in the river and Fort Médoc on the opposite bank, it forms the 'estuary chain' defense system, and it was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2008. Inside are walls with walkways, old gates, a small museum, and craft shops. Entry is free, and from the walls you can look out over the wide estuary. The surrounding area is the Blaye wine region. You can take a ferry from Lamarque in the Médoc across the river, which pairs well with a day on the Médoc wine route.
Opening hours
Fortress open all day
Nearby sights
- Médoc Wine Route
- Bassins des Lumières
- La Cité du Vin
- Musée du Vin et du Négoce
- Pont Jacques Chaban-Delmas
- Jardin Public
- Chartrons
- CAPC Musée d'Art Contemporain