Saint-Tropez Citadel, Saint-Tropez, France

In 1589, Maréchal de Villars supervised the construction of a small fort on the hill known as 'colline des Moulins' overlooking Saint-Tropez. This fort was destroyed in 1595, but the military engineer Raymond de Bonnefons chose the same site to build further defensive structures from the start of the 17th century.

The hexagonal tower, which formed an essential part of the village's defence system, was erected between 1602 and 1607. The Citadel underwent numerous modifications over the centuries, before falling into disuse in the 19th century, when the strategic interest of this perfectly-preserved fortress finally diminished.

The old cannons are still in place facing out towards to sea, and the views from the top are stunning across the Gulf and the Mediterranean Sea.

Bought up by the town in 1993 and made a listed monument, today it hosts a museum dedicated to the history of Saint Tropez and its relationship with the sea.

References:

See Saint-Tropez

Castles and fortifications in France

User Reviews

Vladislav Moroshan (18 months ago)
The view is great, but the castle is not that interesting.

James Oliver (18 months ago)
This is a hidden gem that is well worth walking up the lanes and steps to. Inside the castle is a labyrinth of rooms which are really interesting and informative. You can see a lot of time effort and money has been put into this place. Absolutely recommend.

Michael G M (19 months ago)
Fascinating history Great views of Saint Tropez The maritime museum was very educational.

Christine Peral (20 months ago)
Solid castle/museum. It’s only $4 euro a person to go in. Nice views. Could visit or not, wouldn’t make it break the experience or trip to St. Tropez. Nice history tho!

Yusuf Khan (20 months ago)
History of the site well presented. Definitely visit if in St Tropez.

Featured Historic Landmarks, Sites & Buildings

Photo from Flickr, copyright Wikimedia Commons

Historic Site of the week

Château du Lude

The Château du Lude is one of the many great châteaux of the Loire Valley in France. Le Lude is the most northerly château of the Loire Valley and one of the last important historic castles in France, still inhabited by the same family for the last 260 years. The château is testimony to four centuries of French architecture, as a stronghold transformed into an elegant house during the Renaissance and the 18th century. The monument is located in the valley of Le Loir. Its gardens have evolved throughout the centuries.

Saint-Tropez Citadel

Address

Details

More Information

Rating

Interesting Sites Nearby

User Reviews

Featured Historic Landmarks, Sites & Buildings

Finest Norman castles in Italy

Exploring the History of Northern Poland

Discovering Slovenia's Historic Wonders

Historic Site of the week

Château du Lude