It was constructed for use in the Franco-Prussian War to stop the Prussian forces from invading from Vesoul, but was never used in battle and was abandoned.

In the 1800s, the French government decided to construct defences as there was a possible war with Germany.

[1] The defence of Besançon had hardly changed since the guidance of Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban which had provided the city with its citadel, but it was agreed that new fortifications were essential.

[3][4] The construction of the fort was not subject to strategic research, and was the reaction of a possible attack from Germany, explaining the simplicity of the buildings.

[3][4] The fort measured 350 by 120 metres (1,150 by 390 ft), artillery was positioned on the front and smallest sides of the fort, and it was designed so the central buildings were protected from attack.