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Fortress · Marselha, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
Château d'If
16th-century fortress on a small islet in front of the harbor, which served as a prison for centuries and became famous as the setting of The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas. It is reached by boat from the Vieux-Port.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Château d'If
The Château d'If was built between 1529 and 1531 by order of King Francis I, on the Île d'If, the smallest island of the Frioul archipelago, about 3.5 km from the Vieux-Port. It is a square three-storey building, 28 m per side, with three towers, surrounded by walls that occupy the whole islet of three hectares.
The fortress was hardly used for defense and served as a prison for about 400 years, mainly for political prisoners and Protestants. It was opened to the public in 1890.
Fame came with Alexandre Dumas, who placed Edmond Dantès, the hero of The Count of Monte Cristo, there. The visit shows the cells, the graffiti left by prisoners on the walls, and the cells that tradition associates with the novel's characters.
From the top of the walls the view opens to Marseille, Notre-Dame de la Garde and the islands of Pomègues and Ratonneau. Boats that go to the château usually continue to the Frioul, and it's possible to combine the two visits in one day.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About an hour on the island, plus about 20 minutes by boat each way. With the Frioul, allow half a day.
Best time
Spring and autumn, when the sea is calmer and there are shorter lines. On days of strong winds or rough seas boats may not run. Opening hours vary by season: check before you go.
How to get there
By boat from the Quai de la Fraternité at the Vieux-Port. The island has no other access.
Tip
Buy the boat ticket and the entrance separately, checking return times. Take a warm layer: it's very windy on the boat and on top of the walls. There is a youth discount: check conditions before you go.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Château d'If
How to get to the Château d'If?
Only by boat, departing from the Quai de la Fraternité at the Vieux-Port. The crossing takes about 20 minutes.
Is the Château d'If related to The Count of Monte Cristo?
Yes. Alexandre Dumas used the fortress as Edmond Dantès's prison. The visit shows the cells associated with the novel.
Do the boats run every day?
They depend on the weather and sea. On strong mistral days departures may be cancelled. Check before you go.
Can you combine it with the Frioul islands?
Yes, boats usually make both stops. Plan on half a day.