The Fortifications Of Paris

As a strategically located seat of European power, Paris was a prized target for invaders. Consequently, it was one of the world’s most heavily fortified cities. Though many of the fortifications have been demolished, or hidden, they have left their imprint on the city, both physically and historically. To understand the history of Paris—and indeed, of France as a whole—one must understand the history of the fortifications. This heavily illustrated history begins with the period 300 B.C. to A.D. 987. Part II looks at the Medieval era (987–1512), a growth period for the city. Bastioned fortifications (1512–1874) are the focus of Part III, covering the era in which Paris modernized its defenses. Modern fortifications (1874–1944) are detailed in Part IV, ranging from the building of the second Parisian ring of polygonal forts to the end of World War II.

This book describes and illustrates French fortifications from 1715 (the death of Louis XIV) to 1815 (the fall of Napoleon), focusing particularly on the Napoleonic era. After an historical background, it covers the heritage of the Ancien Regime with the important contributions of Vauban (the bastioned defense), Gribeauval's reforms in artillery, and Montalembert's innovations. Chapters explore the style of Napoleonic fortifications, siege warfare, artillery and engineering corps, as well as the Napoleonic achievements in France, Italy, German and the Netherlands, including projects that were planned but never completed.