Fort de Troyon is part of a group of fortifications built in the late 19th century under the Séré de Rivières system, which was a response to the defeat of France in the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-1871. These fortifications were designed to protect France's borders from potential German aggression.
Constructed between 1877 and 1879, Fort de Troyon was strategically positioned near the town of Troyon to guard the valley of the River Meuse. Its location was crucial as it covered one of the few passable routes in the region that an invading army could use to advance into French territory.
During World War I, Fort de Troyon played a pivotal role in the early months of the conflict. In September 1914, it was the site of intense battles. Despite being outdated and outgunned by more modern German artillery, the garrison at Troyon, heroically resisted several German attacks. The fort's defenders managed to hold off the German forces long enough to allow the French Army to reinforce and regroup, contributing significantly to the French defense strategy along the Meuse.
Today, Fort de Troyon is managed by a foundation. My visit was a memorable experience. I visited the fort during a first introduction to the battlefields around Saint-Mihiel. Upon arrival, the ticket seller welcomed me with “kein rucksack, kein rucksack”. I must have looked rather German.
It turned out that it was not possible to enter the fort with a backpack to prevent theft. I explained that it was my camera bag and that I wanted to take pictures of the fort. Then I faced my next challenge. It was not possible to take professional pictures without permission from "Monsieur le Président" of the fort. Fortunately, this good man was sitting next to the ticket seller. I showed him some pictures of Fort Honswijk that I had recently taken. He was apparently impressed and I was allowed to take pictures, provided that I stayed behind the fences that screened off the dangerous places inside the fort. I soon discovered that the best pictures could be taken inside the fences and half an hour later, I returned to the counter to ask permission to take pictures inside the fences. “Mais bien sûr, pas de problème”. Suddenly everything was possible, of course at my own risk. Afterwards I put down twenty euros as a thank you. “Pour un vin, une bière ou pour le fort”.
The lighting conditions weren't ideal for me that day, but the harsh light and heavy shadows create a dramatic effect, so I'm happy with my photos of Fort de Troyon.
Collection André Ruiter
Collection André Ruiter