Built on a rock 26 metres above sea level on the Antibes coast line the 16th-century fort offers a 360 degree panoramic view. It is set within a protected 4 acre park that surrounds the structure with Mediterranean plants.
Fort Carre was built in the late 16th century by King Henry II of France. Perching on the edge of the Saint-Roch peninsula it was originally built for strategic defence purposes, and later became used as military barracks, and a military training centre.
Its star shape was designed by Henri de Mandon, while the Marquis de Vauban redeveloped it in the 17th century, strengthening its structure to withstand ricochet fire. During the French Revolution, Napoleon was briefly imprisoned at the fort, and it also played an important part in 1860, when Nice was annexed to France.
When to come
Open all year round, Tuesday to Friday 12:30-16:00 and Saturdays 10:00-16:00. Closed on January 1st, May 1st November 1st and December 25th. An obligatory guided tour is included in the price, starting every 30 minutes.
How to get passes
You can get tickets on entry. Visitor information sheets are available in various languages, including English, German, Italian, Spanish, Chinese and Russian. Tickets cost 3€ or 1.50€ for students, over 65 and teachers. Under 18 enter for free.
Worth knowing
Restored by volunteers of the Club du Vieux Manoir between 1979 and 1985, Fort Carré was finally bought by the City of Antibes Juan-les-Pins in 1997 and opened to the public in 1998.
