The Fortifications of Paris

As a strategically located seat of European power, Paris was a prized target for invaders. Consequently, it was one of the world's most heavily fortified cities. Though many of the fortifications have been demolished, or hidden, they have left their imprint on the city, both physically and historically. To understand the history of Paris--and indeed, of France as a whole--one must understand the history of the fortifications. This heavily illustrated history begins with the period 300 B.C. to A.