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Fortification

Fort de la Crèche: From Stone to Concrete

Wimereux, Opal Coast

About this place

The "Fort de la Crèche," built 75 meters above sea level, upstream from the headland of the same name, overlooks the harbor of Boulogne-sur-Mer.

It was built in 1879.It is one of the fortifications built according to the “Séré de Rivières” system following the defeat at Sedan in 1870. Its mission was to defend the port of Boulogne-sur-Mer during the Third Republic, the era when the deep-water port was established.

Firing exercises were conducted there during World War I, at a time when the port of Boulogne served as a rear base for transporting the “Tommies.”

It was renovated by the French Navy in 1936–1938 before being incorporated into the Atlantic Wall during World War II.

It remained a military site until 1999 and is now owned by the Conservatoire du littoral, which has entrusted its management to the Association Fort de la Crèche, which organizes guided tours and various events.

For information on public opening hours and admission fees, visit the association’s website.

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