Fort Risban, Calais

Fort Risban in Calais stands as a testament to centuries of military strategy and architectural adaptation, positioned strategically along Avenue Raymond Poincaré at the port’s entrance. Originally referenced during the English siege of Calais in 1346, the fort was a pivotal English installation meant to choke off supplies to the besieged city. A wooden tower was initially erected by Edward III's forces, later replaced with the more permanent Lancaster Tower by the early 15th century. This tower became a critical point for controlling access to the port and storing gunpowder for English ships.

Fort Risban switched hands multiple times, being reclaimed by France in 1558 under the Duc de Guise, then briefly held by the Spanish Netherlands until 1598, after which the Treaty of Vervins returned it to French control. Vauban, the renowned military engineer, visited the fort in the late 1600s, noting its neglected state and making modest modifications, as extensive funding was unavailable.

Over the centuries, the fort saw numerous reconstructions, including a significant overhaul by French engineers in the 19th century. Though dismantled in 1908, it was refortified during World War II, serving as an air-raid shelter for locals. Post-war, Fort Risban transitioned to a more peaceful function, becoming a site for nautical recreation and offering scenic walking paths along the port. Its hilltop vantage point provides panoramic views, with the path leading to the seafront and the nearby Dragon of Calais.

The city of Calais plans substantial rehabilitation efforts at Fort Risban from September 2024 to May 2025, intending to enhance accessibility and improve the surrounding promenade, preserving this historic landmark for future generations.