belfort

Belfort is a commune in northeastern France, and the capital of the Territoire de Belfort department in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region. It lies at the foothills of the Vosges and along the Savoureuse River, with a hilltop area that forms a natural fortress core of the town.

The city is notable for its historic fortifications, including the Vauban-era Citadel of Belfort. A prominent landmark is the Lion of Belfort, a large limestone sculpture by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi completed in 1880, which overlooks the city and commemorates its defense during the Franco-Prussian War of 1870–71.

Historically an industrial center, Belfort has a diversified economy with manufacturing and services contributing to its development. The city hosts higher education institutions, including the University of Technology Belfort-Montbéliard (UTBM), which maintains a campus in the area.

Belfort is connected by rail and road to the surrounding region and serves as a regional hub for transport and commerce. The city supports cultural institutions and hosts events that reflect its long-standing civic tradition.