Fort Napoleon was built in the early 19th century as a command base from which its namesake was to direct the invasion of England; however, it has never been put to military use, as the French Empire fell before the invasion could be launched. The building is made of brick, and is set within a pit with a retaining wall, a measure intended to give it some protection from bombardment. It is on a hilltop 350 feet up, overlooking a bay. Since restoration and reopening in the year 2000, it houses a museum on fortress building and hosts numerous cultural events: theatre and film performances, exhibitions, concerts, and the like.