Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

Fort du Moulin is a French military structure located on the island of Port-Cros, near Hyères. Built in the 16th century, it was profoundly redesigned in the 17th century, notably by Cardinal de Richelieu in 1635. It was originally used as a shelter for soldiers, a store for artillery and food, and even a bakery for the garrison. It was part of a defensive ensemble including the forts of the Estissac, Eminence and Port-Man.

In 1710, the fort was involved in a naval battle between the royal flute La Baleine and British ships. In 1793 he was taken by the British, who blew him up before withdrawing, destroying the central building and the northwest front. After its resumption, a few buildings were restored, and a coastal battery was built at its foot. In 1814, this battery was armed with cannons and mortars, occupied by gunners and infantrymen.

After the fall of the Empire in 1815, the fort was partially abandoned and rearmed in 1841 with shells and mortar. Although it was restored in 1863, it was finally downgraded in 1885 to the benefit of the Eminence Fort. Since 1988, the building has been assigned to Port-Cros National Park. Its architecture includes a central body surrounded by a enclosure, with defensive elements such as a hemicylindrical mask and a low battery-barbet.

The fort has been listed as a Historic Monument since 1954, including the castle and its adjoining grounds. Its history reflects the strategic stakes of the Western Mediterranean, between coastal defence and Franco-British conflicts. Today, it reflects the evolution of the maritime fortifications of the Renaissance in modern times.

External links