Blaye

At noon we cast off from Bourg and headed to Blaye. Blaye is located on the east side of the Gironde Estuary and is known for its citadel complex high above the town. It was designed by Vauban, a military engineer during the reign of Louis XIV. Built between 1685 and 1689 its goal was to protect the town from invaders coming up the estuary. Along with forts on the other side of the estuary it was able to control river traffic. It is quite a complex with its own streets, barracks and even a prison. There are still ruins from a 12th century castle within the ramparts. Legend says the hero Count Roland of Blaye from the Chanson of Roland was buried here in the basilica on the site of the current citadel.Läs mer