Family and friends trips

LA CITADELLE

Descriptif

The Citadel at Bitche

A true military master piece, the Citadel is the most important historical site in Pays de Bitche.

In the past, Pays de Bitche was the setting for many wars and invasions and of which the castle on the site of Bitche Citadel was a centrepiece. Neither the Swedish, the region of Lorraine, the French nor the Germans were able overthrow this stronghold.

In 1680, the castle was replaced by the Citadel designed by Vauban. It was dismantled in 1697, but rebuilt in 1740 by the architect Cormontaigne.

The most glorious feat was conducted by Commander Teyssier and his garrison during the 1870 Franco-Prussian war. While the rest of France was capitulated, they resisted for 230 days.

The visit

The visit around the Citadel takes you through the underground passages allowing you to relive the resistance against the Germans (1870-1871).

On the platform of the Citadel, the historical museum “The Men during the 1870 War” has records and photos, and a collection of arms and uniforms worn by the men on the battlefield. The recently restored Vauban Chapel exposes an original relief map of Bitche dating to 1794 which is now classified as a Historical Monument.

The Citadel is one the “Great attractions in Moselle”. The sublime Garden for Peace is at the foot of its ramparts (COVID 19: on 26th May, garden is still closed).

 
NOTE: the tariff for the citadel no longer includes the entry fee into the gardens. With the entrée ticket you now receive a reduced rate into the gardens (2euros/pers).

Adresse :

Rue Bombelles
57230 BITCHE

Contact :

Tél. : 03 87 96 18 82 - Fax : 03 87 06 11 78
Mail : contact@citadelle-bitche.com
Site web : http://www.citadelle-bitche.com