Saarlouis in Saarland: the most French town of Germany

Europe Video Productions travel film: Discover Saarlouis in Saarland, often called “the most French town in Germany” and one of the most beautiful towns in Saarland.
Saarlouis was founded in 1680 by King Louis XIV of France—the famous Sun King—and was originally named Sarre-Louis in his honour. The new town was designed as a major fortress protecting France’s eastern border. The celebrated military engineer Vauban drew up the plans, while engineer Thomas de Choisy supervised its construction. Louis XIV himself visited the fortress in 1683. During the French Revolution, the town was renamed Sarre-Libre. It later became part of Prussia in 1815 following the defeat of Napoleon and the Second Treaty of Paris. The fortress was officially abandoned in 1889, and many of its defences were subsequently dismantled. However, important sections of the French and Prussian fortifications have survived and remain an essential part of Saarlouis’s identity. The town’s long history on the border between France and Germany has created a fascinating combination of French charm and German culture. Its historic centre is built around the Großer Markt, originally the fortress’s large military parade ground.

Saarlouis was also the birthplace of Michel Ney, one of Napoleon’s most famous marshals. Join us as we explore the historic town centre, the Vauban fortifications, Vauban Island, churches, green parks and the nearby Saarpolygon—one of Saarland’s most striking modern landmarks. More information about tourism in Saarlouis (website in German): https://www.rendezvous-saarlouis.de