Built to defend against Spanish invasions, this citadel at Doullens was the first in France.
France's first citadel, built in 1530, is well worth a visit! At the entrance to the town from Amiens, you can discover the site either by taking a sporting circuit around the ramparts, or by visiting it from the inside (inside the blockhouse, part of the counter-mining galleries and two exhibitions). If you can, opt for the second option, which allows you to enter the pre-Vauban starry structure and overlook the town and the plain. You'll have a more intimate view of this relatively unknown citadel. Indeed, it reminds visitors that Doullens was once a town on the border of the Spanish Netherlands, during the reign of François Ier. The citadel was built in the 16th century to defend against Spanish invasions. Over the centuries, the building was modernized and eventually became a prison, housing Blanqui and Raspail, among others. The citadel hosts the annual Fête des Plantes at the end of May: a renowned event bringing together 70 nursery growers and collectors. Don't hesitate to make the detour to at least admire it and try to imagine life as it might have been 500 years ago: another form of travel, one that might inspire you to explore further Doullens, the Somme and the whole surrounding region, a land rich in stories just waiting to be experienced anew. So, what are you waiting for?
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Further information
Opening time and information on THE DOULLENS CITADEL
Open all year round. April to November: weekdays from 10:30 am to 4:30 pm, weekends and during zone B school vacations from 10:30 am to 6 pm. Adults: €6. Children (aged 4 to 12): €4.50. Audioguide €4. Guided tour (on request on site or by telephone; duration 2 hours).
Message from Management
La Citadelle, located in Doullens, is France's oldest fortified town. Built before the birth of Vauban, it was used for several purposes over several centuries. Our guided tour will tell you allabout the origins of its construction, its various uses - as a fortress and then as a prison - and how it is preserved and enhanced today . Take anaudio tour and learn about the 1944 bombings, the confinement of soldiers behind military ramparts, the exile of repatriated Algerians, etc .Various temporary exhibitions are organized on site, as well as tours and workshops for schoolchildren. Groups of twenty or more can also join us for a half-day guided tour. In the gift store, you'll find a range of books on the history of the citadel, as well as a series of comic books forchildren ,allowing them toimmerse themselves in the history of the monument. A place steeped in history and wellworth a visit!
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