Citadelle de Blaye
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Citadelle de Blaye - by Management
Description
The citadelle de Blaye was used to control maritime traffic along the Gironde estuary, a few kms downstream from Bordeaux - it was complemented by Fort Paté and Fort Medoc for that purpose. It was designed by military engineer François Ferry and built at the end of the 17th century, incorporating some of the existing medieval buildings such as the 12th century Chateau des Rudel and 15th century tour de l'Éguillette. It comprises defensive walls and structures that were popular under Vauban (who supervised some of the works).
Access & Transport
The citadel is at the northern end of the town of Blaye, about 50km northwest of Bordeaux (A10/D137) on the right bank of the estuary. Visitor parkings are available outside the walls. It is also possible to take a ferry (RORO) from the Medoc side in Lamarque across to Blaye.
Instructions & Recommendations
If you understand / speak French, we suggest attending the daily guided tours. They last 1h15', starting at 14h30 and leave from the Place d'armes in the citadel. Cost is 7,50 € for adults and 5,50 € for children (5-12). In Spring and Autmn there are also tours at 16h00 on weekends and from mid-June to mid-Sept there are 3 tours per day: 11h00, 14h30 and 16h00.
Environmental & Social
Environmentally neutral. Preserves the town' architectural and historical heritage + provides some economic activity locally
Conclusion
A little out of the way from Bordeaux and most of the regional touristic highlights, but if you are a military fortifications buff or passing through the area, this is clearly worth a couple of hours of your time and a good place for a lunch or coffee break.
Key positive
Impressive size and some well-maintained sections
Free entrance and open 24/7
Key negative
-
Suitability
Accessible for visitors with reduced mobility
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 50m
est. visit time:1h 15m
Sunrise / early morningOk
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightNo
Night – aft. midnightNo