The 17th-century fort of Port-Man on the island of Port-Cros

The fort de Port-Man is a former French military structure located at the northeast point of the island of Port-Cros. Built between 1635 and 1637, it was likely constructed on the site of an older watchtower from the reign of François I. It was part of a defensive complex ordered by Richelieu to counter threats, which also included the forts de l'Estissac, du Moulin, and de l'Éminence.

At its origin, the fort served as a simple battery intended to control the passage between the Levant islands and Port-Cros, as well as access to the roadstead. The structure was expanded at the beginning of the 18th century and remodeled in the 19th century before being disarmed by ministerial decree on November 21, 1881.

After being left abandoned, the fort was assigned to the Port-Cros National Park in 1977. In 2003, the state granted the use of the fort to photographer Yann Arthus-Bertrand, with the condition that he ensure its restoration.

Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons