Peeking out from Fontenay-sous-Bois is the Rond-Point du Fort de Nogent. It carries tales of military history. This fort is not in Nogent-sur-Marne despite its name. It follows the tradition of naming forts after the cities they protect.
The Rond-Point du Fort de Nogent marks a historical fortress. It is part of Paris’s fortifications. The fort stands as a testament to 19th-century military planning. It shows the resilience of defenders throughout conflicts.
After 1840 Adolphe Thiers ordered sixteen forts built to protect Paris. Construction of the Fort de Nogent spanned from 1841 to 1848. Guillaume Dode de la Brunerie oversaw it. The Rond-Point du Fort de Nogent has bastioned ramparts. Each side measures 200 meters. They are inspired by Vauban’s designs. The main entrance is on Boulevard du 25-août-1944. Another entrance exists on Boulevard de Strasbourg.
During the Siege of Paris in 1870 the Rond-Point du Fort de Nogent played a crucial role. Commandant Pistoulet led the fort. Chef d’Escadron David commanded the artillery. Chef de Bataillon Revin was in charge of engineering. The infantry comprised over 1700 men. The artillery had cannons and mortars. Prussian forces bombarded the fort in December 1870. The fort’s defenders held their ground. The fort was surrendered during the general capitulation of Paris on January 26 1871.
The Rond-Point du Fort de Nogent gained importance again in World War II. In August 1944 fierce battles occurred. The German Feldgendarmerie was stationed in the fort. They fought against French resistance fighters. The resistance won. However 30 local fighters died in the combat. The fort’s history reminds us of sacrifices during tumultuous times.
After the war the Rond-Point du Fort de Nogent served different purposes. In 1958 it sheltered Algerians. The National Liberation Front targeted them for their allegiance to France. By 1961 it became a center of internment. It housed nearly 200 officers involved in the Algiers Putsch. These officers awaited trial or reassignment.
From 2006 to 2015 the Rond-Point du Fort de Nogent served as an emergency shelter. The Salvation Army operated it. It housed up to 160 people during winter months. In 2015 the fort’s facilities returned to the military. They supported the Vigipirate security plan. Today the Rond-Point du Fort de Nogent is home to the Groupement du recrutement de la Légion étrangère. It continues its military service legacy.
Visitors to the Rond-Point du Fort de Nogent can explore the fortifications. They can learn about the fort’s historical significance. The bastioned ramparts and layout offer a glimpse into 19th-century military engineering. The grounds are well-maintained. They provide a serene environment to reflect on the fort’s past.
One highlight is learning about the French Foreign Legion’s recruitment process. The GRLE plays a crucial role in selecting and training recruits. This connects the fort’s past and present military heritage. The Rond-Point du Fort de Nogent stands as a monument. It represents France’s military history resilience and adaptability. The fort has witnessed much from its 19th-century construction to its role in historical events. It continues to serve a vital function bridging the past with the present. Visiting the Rond-Point du Fort de Nogent is a journey through history. It explores the spirit of those who defended this remarkable fortress.