A bit of history
What started out as a project at the beginning of the 19th century, the fort's construction finally started in 1804 and finished in 1857 under the reign of Louis-Philippe. By the end of the Second Empire, it served as a prison for Prussian and Austrian soldiers during the war of 1870.
Just before WWI, the fort falls into decay and becomes an easy prey for plunderers.
The fort has come to life since the local government became owner of the monument, highlighting it through a very popular television programme in France and abroad.
Looking to visit the Fort Boyard?
Unfortunately, that's impossible! The Fort Boyard is not open for visitors, you can only get round it by jet-ski or boat from La Rochelle, or view it from the sky by helicopter.
