The Citadel Quarter

 

This area's name recalls its original military role.
The Spanish, whose fortress was known as Fort Léon, were the first to build on this strategic site situated on the left bank of the channel. The fort was transformed into a powerful citadel by the English in 1659 and then, a few years later, when it was returned to France, bastions were added by Vauban.
The citadel was completely dismantled after the Treaty of Utrecht in 1713.

Panorama of the town at the time of Louis XIV. Oil painting by Hugo d'Alési. Port Museum Collection.

The quarter then gained a new lease of life as warehouses and industrial buildings sprang up.
By the end of the 19th century the Chamber of Commerce, the Pilot Station, the Seafarer's Mission and the headquarters of maritime firms were all established here and it became the seafaring heart of the city.
When the Western Port was created maritime activity moved away and today the Citadel Quarter is once again an integral part of the city. The University of the Littoral is now established here and cafés and restaurants enliven the quays, although there are still visible traces of the area’s maritime heritage, notably the Tobacco Warehouse and the former Pilot Station.