Belfort was fortified from 1687 according to Vauban’s plans and subsequently extended. The fortress played a particularly important role in the 103-day siege of Belfort in 1870/71, one of the last major battles of the Franco-Prussian War.

The centrepiece of the fortress is the Belfort Citadel on a rocky outcrop above the old town, with a museum, gastronomy and a fantastic panoramic view. The “Lion of Belfort” sits majestically on its western flank, a monument to the enduring resistance of the French troops and the bravery of the people of Belfort against the Germans during the siege.

Today, the La Caponnière Federation, founded in 1985, is committed to protecting the fortified military heritage of northern Franche-Comté, in particular the Belfort fortified belt. It promotes co-operation between associations, communities and volunteers to bring the fortifications back to life while preserving their history. The association endeavours to raise public awareness of the cultural importance of these monuments, to promote inclusion and accessibility and to support cultural and educational activities that strengthen links between generations and the region. By joining the FORTE CULTURA network, these efforts are to be internationalised.