National Fort, Brittany Coast Travel Guide

Fort National, originally named Fort Royal, is a historic fort located on a tidal island just a few hundred meters off the coast of the walled city of Saint-Malo. Constructed in the late 17th century, between 1689 and 1693, by the engineer Siméon Garangeau based on the plans of Vauban, it was commissioned by King Louis XIV to bolster the city's defenses. The fort is built of granite and occupies the site of what was originally a beacon used as a lighthouse.Throughout its history, Fort National has played a crucial role in defending Saint-Malo. It withstood an Anglo-Dutch attack in 1693 and served as a strategic point in the chain of fortifications protecting the coastline. In 1817, it was the site of a duel between the French privateer Robert Surcouf and twelve Prussian officers. During World War II, the fort was occupied by German forces and used as a prison in 1944, where 380 residents of Saint-Malo were held for six days. Allied shelling during this time resulted in the death of 18 prisoners.Today, Fort National is a popular tourist attraction, offering guided tours that delve into its rich history and architectural features. Visitors can explore the barracks, gun emplacements, and the central courtyard, while enjoying panoramic views of the coastline. Access to the fort is only possible at low tide, when a natural causeway emerges, connecting it to the Sillon Beach. A French flag flying atop the fort indicates that it is open for visits.