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Discover Fort des Rousses: History and Guided Tours
Explore Fort des Rousses, a former 19th-century military fort in the Jura. Enjoy a historical tour through its underground galleries and discover its captivating past.
Le Fort des Rousses : Un Voyage à Travers l'Histoire Militaire dans le Jura
The Fort des Rousses, an impressive 19th-century military structure, is located in the picturesque Jura region, high above the resort of Les Rousses. This fortress, one of the largest in France, today offers visitors the chance to explore its vast underground galleries, robust casemates, and detailed exhibitions on the region's military history. Here's what you can discover on your visit to Fort des Rousses.
History of Fort des Rousses
Built between 1844 and 1879, the original purpose of the Fort des Rousses was to protect France's eastern border against Swiss or German invasion. This gigantic complex could accommodate up to 3,500 soldiers and was equipped to be self-sufficient for several months in the event of a siege. After losing its military function at the end of the 20th century, the fort was reinvented as a tourist site and cheese maturing centre, where the famous Comté cheese is matured in its climate-controlled cellars.
Exploring the Underground Galleries
Visitors can explore the fort's miles of underground galleries, where experienced guides tell the stories of the soldiers who were stationed there and the defensive strategies used. The galleries, impressive in their scale and construction, are a testament to the military genius of the time.
Structure and Function
The underground galleries at Fort des Rousses were designed to serve several crucial functions. They allowed for the safe movement of troops and equipment, while providing protection against enemy attacks. These labyrinthine corridors led to various essential installations such as barracks, warehouses, kitchens, and even water wells, ensuring the garrison's self-sufficiency in the event of a prolonged siege.
Guided Tours
Today, these galleries are accessible via guided tours that immerse visitors in the dark and mysterious atmosphere of this underground world. The guides tell fascinating stories about the daily lives of the soldiers, the construction techniques used and the defence strategies involving the fort. Visitors can feel the weight of history as they walk through these narrow corridors, lit by subdued light that accentuates the atmosphere of a bygone era.
Acoustics and Atmosphere
The special acoustics of the underground galleries add an extra dimension to the experience. Sounds are amplified in a unique way, which in the past could help detect enemy movements and today enriches narrations and demonstrations during tours. The cool, slightly damp atmosphere of the galleries reminds visitors of the conditions in which soldiers lived and operated.
Modern Adaptation
Part of the underground galleries have been converted for maturing Comté cheese, exploiting the natural climatic conditions that are ideal for the maturing process. This clever redevelopment allows visitors to discover not only military history but also a renowned regional culinary tradition. Tours can include a cheese tasting, linking the fort's military past with its gastronomic present.
Visits and Activities at Fort des Rousses
- Exhibitions on Military History
The fort features detailed exhibitions on the military history of the region, offering insights into the lives of soldiers, the weaponry of the time, and the different uses of the fort over the years. These exhibitions are enriching for history buffs and the curious alike.
- County refining
A part of the fort is dedicated to the maturing of Comté cheese, using the naturally cold and damp conditions of the cellars to mature the cheese to perfection. Visitors can learn about the maturing process and taste the cheese, considered to be one of the best in France.
- Educational and Family Activities
Fort des Rousses also organises workshops and activities for children, making the visit educational and fun for young visitors. These activities are designed to teach history in an interactive and engaging way.
- Plan Your Visit
The Fort des Rousses is open all year round, with opening times varying according to the season. It is advisable to check opening times and book your tickets in advance, especially during the peak tourist season. Guided tours are available in several languages, offering an in-depth and personalised experience of the site.
The Fort des Rousses is a unique destination in the Jura, offering a fascinating insight into military history while also making innovative use of its spaces as cheese maturing cellars. Whether you're a history buff, a cheese enthusiast, or simply looking for a different tourist experience, Fort des Rousses promises a captivating and rewarding visit.
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