Fort National

Fort National, proudly perched on a tidal island just a few hundred meters off the walled city of Saint-Malo, France, is a testament to the rich military history and architectural prowess of the 17th century. Designed by the illustrious military engineer Vauban, this fortification has stood the test of time, witnessing centuries of conflict, change, and restoration. Today, it offers visitors a captivating journey through history, set against the stunning backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean.

The Origins and Construction of Fort National

Fort National's story begins on l'Îlette rock, a site that once hosted a beacon serving as a lighthouse and a place of public executions for the seigniory of Saint-Malo. Before the fort's construction, the site likely housed a battery as suggested by a model in Saint-Malo's history museum. The transition from a beacon to a formidable fortification came in 1689 when King Louis XIV ordered the construction of the fort, entrusting the task to Siméon Garangeau, who followed Vauban's plans meticulously.

The fort, originally named Fort Royal, was a rectangular structure built of sturdy granite, featuring two half bastions at the south to protect the gate. Access was granted via a drawbridge spanning a dry moat. Inside, a long building provided quarters for officers and troops, along with equipment rooms. The fort's strategic location and robust design made it a crucial part of a defensive chain stretching from Fort-la-Latte to Pointe de la Varde.

The Anglo-Dutch Attack and Fort's Defenses

In November 1693, the fort faced its first significant test when a fleet of 30 English and Dutch ships appeared off Cap Fréhel. The fleet aimed to weaken Saint-Malo's defenses by attacking nearby fortifications, including Fort-la-Latte and Ébihens island. Though they captured Fort de la Conchée and Cézembre island, their attempt to breach Saint-Malo's defenses using a vessel packed with gunpowder failed as the floating mine ran aground.

At the time, Fort National was armed with 14 guns on marine carriages and three mortars, though some accounts suggest it originally boasted 23 guns with the mortars added in 1704. The fort also featured an underground cistern with a capacity of 50,000 liters, fed by gutters and accessible via a trapdoor and a well. Ammunition was stored in an underground bomb-proof magazine with a vaulted ceiling, ensuring the garrison's readiness and resilience against attacks.

Later Developments and Historical Significance

In 1848, the fort underwent significant enhancements, including the addition of a wall pierced for small arms that encircled three-quarters of the fort. This wall provided additional protection against infantry attacks, particularly from troops landing on the surrounding rocks. A small bastion was also added in front of the gate, expanding the fort's total area to about 4,000 square meters.

Recognized as a historic building in 1906, Fort National's ownership changed hands in 1927 when it was sold to a private buyer. Despite this change, the fort's historical significance remained intact, and it continued to be a symbol of Saint-Malo's rich heritage.

World War II and the Fort's Role

During World War II, Fort National found itself under German control as part of Hitler's Atlantic Wall project. By August 1944, as the Allies advanced, the fort became a site of intense conflict. On 6 August, Allied forces bombed Saint-Malo, still under German occupation. The following day, the German commander imprisoned 380 men from Saint-Malo in the fort as hostages. Allied shellfire killed 18 prisoners on the night of 9 to 10 August, and food supplies ran out by 11 August.

On 13 August, 150 elderly men and women joined the existing prisoners. However, that evening, the Germans allowed all prisoners to leave during an hour-long truce. The American 83rd Infantry Division played a crucial role in liberating Saint-Malo and Fort National on 16 August, though not without damage from the shellfire. The fort was later restored according to Vauban's original plans, preserving its historical integrity.

Visiting Fort National Today

Today, Fort National stands as a monument to France's military history and resilience. Visitors can explore the fort from 1 June to 30 September and on select other days, accessible only at low tide when the French flag is flying. The fort's website provides daily opening times, ensuring visitors can plan their trips accordingly.

A visit to Fort National offers a unique glimpse into the past, where the echoes of history resonate within its granite walls. From its origins as a beacon and place of execution to its role in defending Saint-Malo and enduring the trials of World War II, Fort National is a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike. Its strategic location, architectural grandeur, and storied past make it an unmissable attraction for anyone visiting the beautiful walled city of Saint-Malo.