Chapitre 5. Entre destructions et mises en valeur (XVIe-XXIe siècle)

The fortifications of Vauban in Metz underwent significant transformations from the 16th to the 21st century, marked by phases of destruction and preservation. Initially damaged during a siege in 1552, the city's medieval defenses were partially demolished and integrated into a new bastion system beginning in 1560. Vauban's interventions in the late 17th century standardized this approach, replacing medieval elements with modern fortifications, though some remnants survived. The 19th century saw both further destruction—particularly under German annexation—and a growing romantic interest in medieval architecture. Restoration efforts began in the mid-20th century, culminating in the 2014 restoration of the Porte des Allemands for cultural use. This study highlights the complex interplay between military necessity, urban development, and heritage preservation over five centuries.

Didiot, M., Trapp, J., & Wagner, P.-E. (2017). Chapitre 5. Entre destructions et mises en valeur (XVIe-XXIe siècle). Défendre Metz À La Fin Du Moyen Âge, 401–437. https://doi.org/10.4000/13o4b