These impressive fortifications, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, date back to the early 17C, but were altered by Vauban to reinforce the defensive vocation of Rochefort's naval facilities created by Colbert en 1666. The surrounding wall has two monumental gates, Porte Thoiras to the east and Porte des Campani to the west, preceded by semi-circular areas and equipped with guardrooms on the inner side.