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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The fortifications of Cernay, located in the Upper Rhine in the Grand East region, date mainly from the 14th and 16th centuries. Their quadrangular route, partially preserved, follows a regular plan that has structured inner urban development. The ditches, still visible to the west and north, testify to their initial defensive function. The community of Cernay had already fortified its cemetery as early as 1188, and the city is mentioned as oppidum (fortified square) in 1268, with two major gates: one towards Belfort and the other towards Thann. A third gate, the Neutor (New Gate), was added after 1439 in the direction of the plain.

The southeast corner tower, the only well-preserved vestige, illustrates the adaptation of fortifications to artillery in the 16th century. Built in red sandstone of the Vosges, it is about 9 meters high for 11 meters in diameter, with thick walls of 3 meters at the base. Its blazes and upper platform reflect Renaissance military techniques. The fortifications, sold as national goods during the Revolution, were gradually dismantled: the south and east gates were destroyed between 1826 and 1846, while the d'angle towers were converted into houses, with the exception of the James-Barbier Tower.

During the First World War, the remains, already altered (the tower had supported a terrace since the end of the 19th century), suffered additional damage. Only the Thann Gate benefited from a post-war restoration aimed at restoring its original appearance. Today, the tower classified as Historic Monument since 1937 remains the most tangible witness of this defensive system, while the ditches and the route of the streets perpetuate the memory of the medieval and modern enclosure.

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