Perched on a rocky spur overlooking the Meuse, Charlemont is located in Givet, on the Franco-Belgian border, north of the Ardennes. This exceptional site is at the heart of the Givet Point Nature Reserveoffering a magnificent panorama of the Meuse valley and its meanders. A true sentinel of stone, Charlemont is a major witness to French military heritage. Its ramparts and fortified structures tell the story of nearly five centuries of history at the crossroads of borders.
A glimpse into History
Construction of the fort began in 1555 on the orders of Charles V, then sovereign of the territories of the Spanish Netherlands. The name "Charlemont" literally means "Charles's Mount". The fortress's mission was to protect the Spanish Netherlands from French attacks. After Givet was annexed to France in 1678 following the Treaty of Nijmegen, the fort was reinforced by Vauban, then by General Séré de Rivières in the 19th century.
Charlemont has lived through the major European conflicts. In 1914, after three days of bombardment, Charlemont fell. Technically obsolete, the fort only managed to slow the advance of the German troops. In 1940, despite modernizations carried out in the 1930s, the situation repeated itself: unable to withstand the attacks, the site was evacuated in May. Givet was finally liberated on September 7, 1944.
In 1962, the State — in particular the Ministry of Defence — took back possession of the site. On January 1, 1963, General Massu He created the first Commando Training Center in France.The CEC of Givet, with the motto "Believe and Conquer". The military history of Charlemont concluded in November 2009, with the closure of the Centre as part of the reorganization of the Defence.
Historical and natural heritage to be preserved
Historical heritage:
Classified as a Historical Monument since 1927, The fortress benefits from regular work to preserve its ramparts and structures. It is part of the Vauban Major Sites Network, ensuring the enhancement of its architectural and natural heritage.
Natural heritage:
A remarkable natural setting: the fortress is located in the heart of the Givet Point Nature Reserve, which protects a rich biodiversity – both flora and fauna – and offers wild and unspoiled landscapes. The cliffs of the Charlemont fort are classified as Natura 2000 site.
Charlemont, a major tourist site in the Ardennes
Today, The Fort of Charlemont has completely reinvented itself as a tourist and leisure site:
- Self-guided or guided tours on site, with a marked circuit allowing you to discover the Pointe-Est, the old village, the ramparts and the panoramic views over the Meuse and Givet.
- A small tourist train offers a different way to discover the site.
- Adventure course: tree climbing on ramparts (“accropierre”), for a unique “commando” experience.
- Fun and immersive activities: laser tag in the former "battle village", escape game in the siege hospital, all-terrain electric scooters to explore the site…
- Family game trail: Elite investigators, your mission: unmask the spy! Follow his trail through a trail of puzzles and games, and thwart the plans of the Kingdom of France to save the Empire and Charlemont.
- A program of events throughout the season (activities, shows, outings, etc.).
- The site is also certified Accueil Vélo and offers adapted services (charging stations, lockers, repair kit).
In the heart of the Ardennes, Charlemont is waiting for you. Whether you are passionate about history, a lover of spectacular panoramas or simply curious in search of emotions, this unique fortress promises you an unforgettable experience. By strolling along its ramparts, exploring its secret galleries or enjoying its exceptional natural setting, you will immerse yourself in a true journey through time.
Let yourself be surprised, come and feel the power of the place… and experience the Charlemont spirit!
F.A.Q
1. Where is Charlemont located?
Charlemont is located in Givet, in the northern Ardennes (in the Pointe), on the border with Belgium. Givet is 55 km from Charleville-Mézières.
2. How to get to Charlemont?
Accessible by road from Givet, the site has parking for cars, coaches, motorhomes and bicycles.
Attention: Maximum vehicle dimensions: 2,90m wide, 3,10m high.
3. How long has the fort existed?
From 1555 – launched by Charles V – with a first enclosure completed around 1563-1564.
4. Who modernized the fort?
After its annexation to France, the site was modernized and expanded by Vauban from 1678 onwards, with new bastions, barracks, redoubts, etc. Charlemont is also part of the network of major Vauban sites. Givet – Charlemont | Network of major Vauban sites
5. Is it possible to visit the fort?
Yes, in season. Self-guided or guided tours, marked trails, miniature train, leisure activities.
6. What activities are offered?
Tree climbing on ramparts (crop climbing), laser tag, escape games, all-terrain electric scooters, family game trails, tourist train, seasonal entertainment, etc.
7. Is it accessible to everyone?
Yes. The activities are aimed at a wide audience: families, groups, schools, businesses, history or adventure enthusiasts…
8. Has Charlemont always been part of Givet?
No. The fort was a separate municipality until 1800, when it merged with the two Givets. In 1911, the town census indicated that the fort still housed 121 inhabitants, but the dwellings were definitively destroyed following the bombings of 1914.
9. Was Charlemont the setting for a reality TV show?
Yes. The reality TV show “Garde à vous” which recounted military service as experienced by our elders, was filmed in Charlemont, a former commando training center.
| Prices | Min. | Max. |
|---|---|---|
| Other experience |
19 € | 32 € |
| Other experience |
7 € | 11 € |
| Other experience |
90 € | 180 € |
| Other experience |
4 € | 6 € |
| Other experience |
9 € | 21 € |
| Other experience |
70 € | 100 € |
| Other experience |
30 € | 70 € |
| Other experience |
23 € | Not disclosed |
| Other experience |
17 € | 32 € |
| Other experience |
7 € | 9 € |
| Other experience |
4 € | 6 € |
| Other experience |
7 € | 11 € |
| Other experience |
4 € | 22 € |
| Other experience |
10 € | 25 € |
| Other experience |
5 € | 7 € |
| Other experience |
5 € | 7 € |
| Other experience |
6 € | 8 € |
