La+Bastille

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Basic Information
La Bastille was a fortress in Paris, France originally called Chastel Saint-Antoine. The name Bastille means “castle” or “stronghold.” The construction of the fortress began in 1370 under the order of the monarch Charles V and was finished around 1383 under Charles VI. It was built to protect Paris against English attack. The walls of LaBastille stood 100 feet high with 8 towers on top and this was all surrounded by a moat that was 80 feet wide. It was built in the eastern main entrance to medieval Paris.

Notable Events
The storming of La Bastille on July 14, 1789 by revolutionaries marked the beginning of the French Revolution. This event is commemorated yearly on July 14th with the celebration of the French national holiday called Fête Nationale. La Bastille was used as a fort and a castle to store royal fortunes until the 17th Century. In the early 17th Century, La Bastille was used as a prison for the upper class including spies and politicians. The prisoners had comfortable lives including being allowed to bring their servants, their own furniture, clothes and books. They were served luxury cuisine and allowed visitors at their leisure. In 1803 Napoleon I will order the deconstruction of the fortress.

Current Status
The location where La Bastille once sat is an open square filled with shops, markets, and even an opera house. The square also has a marina for local boaters. Even though the famous landmark is gone it is an amazing place to experience modern French culture. The French national holiday called Fête Nationale is celebrated annually to mark the date of the beginning of the French Revolution.