La Place Forte de Neuf-Brisach
La place forte de Neuf-Brisach. After the French loss of Brisach (Breisach on the German side of the the Rhine) in 1697 following the Nine Years' War, construction of a new fortification in the plain of Alsace was deemed essential. Work on the octagonal star-system fort and city began in 1699. Provision was made for 4,000 inhabitants within the fortified city.
Part of the Fortifications of Vauban UNESCO World Heritage site. Inscribed in 2008. The works of Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban (1633-1707), military engineer of Louis XIV.
"Neu-Breisach, a small town (3500 inhab.) and fortress, constructed, by Vauban in 1703, and taken by the Germans in 1870, after a siege of eight days".--Baedeker 1911.
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Although ultimately a victor in World Wars I and II, France suffered extensive losses in its empire, wealth, manpower, and rank as a dominant nation-state. Nevertheless, France today is one of the most modern countries in the world and is a leader am... ... read more 
