Fort d'Ivry

Fort d'Ivry, a remarkable historical landmark nestled in the Parisian suburb of Ivry-sur-Seine, offers a captivating glimpse into France's military past. Constructed between 1841 and 1845, this pentagonal fort was part of a strategic ring of strong points designed to protect Paris from potential invasions. Today, it stands as a testament to France's rich history and architectural ingenuity, inviting visitors to explore its storied past and present-day significance.

The Strategic Importance of Fort d'Ivry

Fort d'Ivry was built in response to perceived threats of invasion and occupation of Paris. Located just one kilometer outside the Thiers Wall, the fort was strategically positioned to dominate a major crossroads leading to the Porte d'Ivry. This location made it a crucial defensive structure, ensuring that any approach to Paris from the south would be heavily fortified. The fort's design, featuring bastions at each of its five points and a ditch surrounding three sides, exemplifies mid-19th-century military architecture aimed at maximizing defensive capabilities.

A Tour Through the Fort

Visitors to Fort d'Ivry can marvel at its robust stone construction, with rough stone forming the majority of the exterior and dressed stone accentuating gates and windows. The fort is punctuated by 18 casemates on one side, while the remaining sides feature a parapet shielding a covered walkway. These casemates, along with those cut into the bastions' flanks, were designed to provide covering fire along the main walls, showcasing the fort's defensive prowess.

Inside, the central parade ground is flanked by barracks and officers' residences, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the soldiers who once manned the fort. The main gate, complemented by three postern gates, serves as the primary entrance, inviting visitors to step back in time and experience the fort's historical ambiance. Additionally, the fort boasts more than two kilometers of underground passages, added between 1852 and 1860, with ceilings six meters thick, further emphasizing its strategic importance.

Historical Significance

Fort d'Ivry played a pivotal role during the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-71. Manned by a Fusiliers Marins battalion from Brest and equipped with 94 artillery pieces, the fort supported attacks against the 6th Prussian Corps. Following the armistice, the fort was occupied by the Prussian forces, who brought in heavy mortars to threaten Paris. During the Paris Commune, the fort was briefly occupied by local townspeople before being evacuated and partially destroyed. Subsequent repairs and upgrades in 1872, as part of the Séré de Rivières program, ensured the fort's continued relevance in France's military strategy.

Fort d'Ivry also holds a somber place in modern history. It was the site of the executions of Roger Degueldre, chief of the Commando Delta organization, and Jean Bastien-Thiry, who was found guilty of organizing an assassination attempt against President Charles de Gaulle. Bastien-Thiry's execution in 1963 marked the last use of the firing squad in France, adding a poignant chapter to the fort's legacy.

The ECPAD: Preserving History

Today, Fort d'Ivry serves a new purpose as the home of the Communication and Audiovisual Production Company for the Department of Defense (Établissement de communication et de production audiovisuelle de la Défense, E.C.P.A.D.). This organization is responsible for storing and preserving the audiovisual archives of the French defense forces, encompassing over a century of history. With approximately 3.5 million photographs and 16,800 films, the archives provide invaluable insights into significant events such as World War I, World War II, the liberation of France, and various international operations.

Visitors to Fort d'Ivry can explore these archives, gaining a deeper understanding of the fort's role in France's military history and the broader context of global conflicts. The ECPAD's ongoing production of new materials ensures that the legacy of Fort d'Ivry continues to be documented and shared with future generations.

Exploring the Surroundings

While the fort itself is a treasure trove of history, the surrounding area of Ivry-sur-Seine offers additional attractions for visitors. The former ditch on the west side of the fort is now occupied by a police barracks, and various buildings have been developed on the former glacis. These modern additions provide a striking contrast to the historical architecture of the fort, highlighting the evolution of the area over time.

Visitors can also take a leisurely stroll through the nearby streets, enjoying the blend of historical and contemporary elements that define Ivry-sur-Seine. The town's vibrant atmosphere, coupled with its rich history, makes it a fascinating destination for those interested in exploring the intersection of past and present.

In conclusion, Fort d'Ivry stands as a symbol of France's resilience and strategic ingenuity. Its walls echo with the stories of soldiers, battles, and significant events that have shaped the nation's history. Whether you're a history enthusiast or a casual visitor, a trip to Fort d'Ivry offers a unique opportunity to delve into France's military past and experience the enduring legacy of this remarkable fortress.