 It served as a cathedral until 1790, but the see persisted until 1801.In 1658 a bridge guarded by towers and a portcullis was constructed over the Var; this is the modern "Porte Royale".In 1690 the military architect Vauban drew up plans to further fortify the town, due to its strategic position guarding the valley of the Var and on the border with Savoy.