Petrusse+Casemates

Pétrusse Casemates The origin of the Pétrusse Casemates dates back to the year 1644 when the Spanish decided to strengthen medieval fortification. During this time period, the Spaniards were known to build large bastions, which were used to defend the members from multiple directions. These underground tunnels run at 23 kilometers (14 miles) long and 40 kilometers (130 feet) deep. Over the years they have undergone many renovations. Starting in 1685, a man named Marshall de Vauban made a few contributions to the construction of the Pétrusse Casemates. He heightened the ceiling to where it is today and then he built the “Small Staircase”. In the years 1728 and 1729, Austrians attached the “Bourbon Lock” and the “Large Staircase” to the underground tunnels. Almost a century after the Austrians’ renovations, the fortress was expanded and made stronger. During WWI and WWII, the Pétrusse Casemates tunnels were used as a defense shelter to 35,000 people. Horses walked these pathways to transfer supplies and weapons to the troops. This is often surprising to visitors who walk the tunnels because of how narrow they are. The tunnels were popular for defense amongst a variety of troops such as the Italians, Belgians, French, Austrians, Dutch, and Parisians. Since July 26, 1933, the Pétrusse Casemates have been opened to the public; although, it is temporarily closed during certain seasons. At the tunnels there is a guided tour that is forty minutes long, and also an option that allows you to stroll the grounds on your own. The guided tour features a lot of walking, leading the visitor through stairwells, storage rooms, and make-shift shelters. There is a wonderful view offered along with fun by looking for clues that hint at events that may have happened in the tunnels which is why this place is favored and attracts around 100,000 people every year.