Construction of the Bastille Begins on December 19, 1370

The construction of the Bastille, a symbol that would come to represent royal authority and later revolutionary fervor, officially began on December 19, 1370, in Paris, France. It was commissioned by King Charles V of France as part of his strategic military and urban planning to fortify the city against potential threats, particularly from the English during the Hundred Years’ War.

Context and Background

In the latter half of the 14th century, France was embroiled in the protracted and devastating Hundred Years’ War with England. The conflict, which began in 1337, was driven by territorial disputes and claims to the French throne. The war’s ongoing nature posed a persistent threat to French cities, including Paris, the capital.

Objectives of the Bastille’s Construction

• Military Defense: The primary motivation behind building the Bastille was defensive. Positioned on the eastern approach to Paris, it was part of a comprehensive effort to bolster the city’s fortifications and act as a deterrent against English forces.
• Symbol of Royal Authority: Beyond its role as a fortress, the Bastille embodied the strength and presence of the French monarchy. King Charles V intended it to manifest royal control and assurance over Paris and its strategic access points.

Construction Details

The Bastille was conceived as a formidable stronghold, featuring thick walls and multiple towers. The structure was designed by the architect Hugues Aubriot, who was also the Provost of Paris at the time. With its robust design, it could house a substantial garrison intended to defend the city against any invasions.

Historical Significance

• Parisian Security: In the immediate sense, the Bastille enhanced the security and defense of Paris throughout several phases of the Hundred Years’ War.
• Evolution into a State Prison: Over the centuries, the Bastille evolved from its initial military purpose to become a state prison. It housed political prisoners, making it a potent symbol of the arbitrary power exercised by the absolute monarchy.
• Prelude to Revolution: The storming of the Bastille on July 14, 1789, became a pivotal moment in the French Revolution, symbolizing the fall of tyranny and the birth of modern France.

Aftermath

Following its construction, the Bastille continued to serve various roles aligned with its original design and beyond. While it stood as an icon of control during its operation, its ultimate destruction marked a significant shift in French society towards liberty and republicanism.

The beginning of the Bastille’s construction in 1370 set the stage for its complex and influential role in French history, impacting the cultural and political landscape in ways its founders could scarcely have imagined.