In 1525, François 1 decided to build a fortified town at Doullens, in order to protect the kingdom against the Spanish who occupied Artois. Building and modernisations continued in the reign of Henry II, Louis XIII and finally Louis XIV. Through the incorporation of Artois into France (Treaty of the Pyrenees 1659) it lost its importance and became a state prison and later, a women's prison. It housed many famous people, including Blanqui, Raspail and Albertine Sarrazin. As the property of the Somme département, it is open to the public. The guided tour by the Friends of the Citadel gives you access to the underground fortifications: tunnels, shooting galleries, parade grounds. A walk along the ramparts gives you a great view of the town.

Practical info

Opening times
Guided tour from May to September, Saturdays, Sundays and bank holidays
at 3 pm and 4:30 pm (everyday from 1/07 to 31/08).

Prices
Adults : 3 €
Children (under 15) : 1.50 €.


M. Delvallez
Les Amis de la Citadelle
25, rue A. Tempez
80600 DOULLENS
Tel : + 33 (0)3 22 77 34 93

Office du Tourisme
Tel/Fax : +33 (0)3 22 32 54 52
E-mail : office-de-tourisme-doullens@wanadoo.fr