Boulogne-sur-Mer - Château

In Roman times Bononia (now "Boulogne-sur-Mer") was the major Roman port for trade and communication with Britain. Caesar's invasions of Britain started right here.

From the 9th century on Boulogne was the capital of the "County of Boulogne". Godfrey of Bouillon and Baldwin I of Jerusalem, prominent figures in the First Crusade, were both Counts of Boulogne.

The old town, located of a hill, is surrounded by remparts since the 13th century.

After the death of Count Renaud of Boulogne (1227 - suicide after 13 years in prison) the castle in the inner city was given up (see "belfry") and a new one was built near the remparts. It is seen to the right, while in the back drop is the dome of the Notre Dame Basilica. Today the castle hosts the local museum.