The Château d’If is not just an imposing fortress located on the island of If, at the heart of the Frioul archipelago; it is a place where History and legend intersect, offering visitors a fascinating journey into the past of Marseille. Built under Francis I to defend the city and quickly becoming a state prison, this monument today provides a unique immersion into the heritage of the Phocean city. So, ready to explore a part of Marseille’s history?
A fortress to protect Marseille
Built in the 1520s, the Château d’If rises under the reign of Francis I to protect Marseille from invasions. Located a few kilometers off the coast of Marseille, this impregnable fortress was meant to defend the city from enemy fleets, especially after the city’s attack in 1423 by Aragonese troops. But the fortification also had a symbolic mission: to assert the king’s authority over a city with a proudly independent spirit.
Three strategic roles of the castle
- Block maritime invasions: By protecting the coasts of Marseille, the Château d’If serves as a rampart against invaders by sea.
- Defend the royal arsenals: Warships, known as galleys, found refuge in Marseille’s ports. The castle allowed for the control of the comings and goings of these military vessels.
- Assert royal presence: Provence was linked to France at the end of the 15th century, and this castle is a symbol of royal power in a city now under French influence.
The military architect Vauban further strengthened the fortress in the 18th century by adding new batteries and a barracks, making it even more imposing. Classified as a Historic Monument in 1926, the castle remains one of the testaments of Renaissance military architecture.
The Château d’If, a state prison from which there is no escape
With thick walls, the Château d’If quickly becomes a formidable prison. Its isolated location makes it an ideal detention place for the regime’s enemies. Among its prisoners were Protestants, Republicans, and even political opponents, who tried to escape unsuccessfully. Crossing the ramparts, facing the sea, and evading the marine soldiers proves nearly impossible.
The famous prisoners of the Château d’If
- Jean-Baptiste Chataud: This captain was accused of introducing the plague in 1720 to Marseille.
- Louis Auguste Blanqui: The anarchist imprisoned for his revolutionary ideas.
- And of course, Edmond Dantès, the fictional character from The Count of Monte Cristo, who makes the castle famous worldwide thanks to Alexandre Dumas.
A rhinoceros on a stopover at the island of If
In 1516, a live rhinoceros, a gift from the King of Portugal to Pope Leo X, stops over at the island of If during its transport to Rome. The animal astonishes the locals, and its story is immortalized by Albrecht Dürer in an engraving. Unfortunately, the rhinoceros would never see Rome, as its ship was lost in a storm.
The breathtaking view from the Great Tower
At the top of the castle, the Great Tower offers you a panoramic view of the Frioul archipelago and Marseille. You can spot the islands of Pomègues and Ratonneau and the ruins of Hôpital Caroline. Admire the Calanques, which reveal themselves to the south with their white cliffs, and be impressed by the Corniche and Notre-Dame de la Garde, towering over Marseille.
What to see from the Château d’If?
- To the east: The neighborhoods of Marseille and the famous Corniche.
- To the south: The first peaks of the calanques and the island of Maïre.
- To the north: The Côte Bleue, its coves and beaches.
Practical information for an unforgettable visit
To access the Château d’If, boats depart regularly from the Vieux-Port de Marseille. The crossing allows you to admire the city from the sea and get closer to this mysterious island.
- Address: Frioul archipelago, Marseille 7th
- Prices: Full price: €7, adult group: €5.50
- Hours: Open every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (closed in case of bad weather)
The Château d’If awaits you for a timeless experience. Come explore the mysteries of this legendary island and discover an exceptional panorama over the sea and the city.