Fort Bourlémont

Located in the town of Mont-lès-Neufchâteau in the Ouest Vosgien, Bourlémont is a “stopping fort” in the Séré de Rivières system of fortifications that extended the fortified town of Toul.

Built from brick between 1878 and 1881, its purpose was to defend and keep watch over the rail and road hub of Neufchâteau and slow down the advancement of the enemy who would be forced to pass through the Trouée de Charmes or Charmes Gap. Considered as a second line outpost following the torpedo shell crisis, Fort Bourlémont was declassified in 1885.

The structure, called Fort Choiseul from 1887, has remained in its original architectural state, with the exception of a few modifications made by the Germans during the Second World War. It presents the military organisation of the 19th century with its vast barracks, powder stores and remarkable double caponier.

Its perfectly symmetrical footprint alone conveys the harmony and precision of construction from this period. Its style is just as aesthetic as strategic; its vaults, orillons and sheltered rooms are excellent architectural masterpieces.

In 1996, the town of Mont-lès-Neufchâteau bought the fort then entrusted its rescue and management to the AAFB (Friends of Fort Bourlémont Association) founded the following year. Today the association organises guided tours to show visitors how life was in the barracks between 1881 and 1914 (the garrison provided a roof for 700 men and 19 officers) and remind them of the tensions that reigned during that time between France and Germany.

For example, during the First World War, the structure received those wounded during the Battle of Verdun, Bourlémont being the only fortification to have been equipped, at the time of its construction, with a group of casemates intended to serve as an infirmary.

For young visitors, treasure hunts are organised during which they can discover the architecture of the fort and some military features including the optical telegraph which, using Morse code, provided a means of communication between the forts. The association regularly organises events.

Fort Bourlémont

Contacts: Asssociation des Amis du fort de Bourlémont (AAFB)

9 place de l'Eglise 88300 MONT LES NEUFCHATEAU +33 (0)3 29 94 35 69

email :aafb@ifrance.fr

Available on site: Picnic area, arboretum, car and coach parking, toilets including disabled facilities, snack bar with patio, gift shop.

Opening hours: Open from 2.30 to 5 pm (last tours). From 1 May to 30 June and 1 to 30 September: Sundays and public holidays. From 1 July to 31 August: every day except Monday. All year, by appointment only. Late night visits by appointment only from 1 to 22 August, Tuesdays and Fridays from 9.30 pm.

Admission: Individual adults: €4; teenagers (10-18 years): €1 ; Children under 10: free; Groups: €3

Site du fort de Bourlemont (88)