Blaye (Cussac-Fort-Medoc, France)

Blaye is a Gironde River cruise port and town in France's Aquitaine region (Bordeaux Prefecture). The town is on the estuary of River Gironde and is the site of an imposing Citadelle built by Marquis de Vauban (1633-1707, a French military engineer). The citadel (town's fortified area) overhangs the estuary and allows for magnificent panoramic views over the river.

Inside are the ruins of an ancient Gothic chateau containing the tomb of Charibert II, son of Clotaire II and the king of Aquitaine. Blaye is also defended by Fort Pate (on an island in Gironde) and Cussac-Fort-Medoc (on the river's left bank), both from the 17th century. From here passengers can also visit the Bourg village, built on a rocky outcrop and enclosed by medieval ramparts. The next photo shows the fortifications of Blaye Citadelle.

Blavia (Blaye) was a port of the Santones in ancient times. Tradition states that Frankish hero Roland was buried in Blavia's basilica, which was on the site of today's citadel. It was an important stronghold that played an important part during the wars against the English (who burned it in 1352) and the French Wars of Religion (1593).