Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban was a French military engineer born in 1633. He is best known for his innovative designs of fortifications and his contributions to military architecture during the reign of King Louis XIV. Vauban's work significantly improved the defense capabilities of French cities and forts. Throughout his career, Vauban constructed over 160 fortifications across France and its territories. He also developed the concept of a "star fort," which featured angled bastions to better withstand attacks. His expertise earned him the title of Marquis and he is remembered as one of the greatest military engineers in history.