It was built between 1804 and 1859 to protect the mouth of the Charente River, but the fort proved outdated by new artillery techniques from the moment it was inaugurated. It became a prison for the Communards before they were transferred to New Caledonia. Then it was deserted until the day shrewd producers (in 1990) turned it into the set of a televised games show, earning it international renown. The fort cannot be visited, but boat trips take you to get a closer look.