Fort Carre, Antibes

Impressively built fort located on the Saint Roch peninsula

Updated 13 June 2016

About

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.

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.

Visitor comments

"For the paltry sum of 3 euros, this is a must-do. Even if you're not a history buff, it is the best place to take photos of the harbour and surrounding hillsides. If you ARE a history buff, then pay attention, because the tour guide is a treasure trove of information about this Marquis de Vauban design (visits are by guided tour only). Make sure to check out the grave of the General who is buried standing up." - Trip Advisor
"Fort Carre is one of those buildings, where people pass when they arrive in Antibes or leaving the town for the airport, but never actually visit. I for one, would really recommend it, it is a nice place to visit, the park surrounding it has many hidden surprises and the view from the top is just amazing. The Fort is surrounded by football fields and a track for those who want to do some sport, as well a very nice skateboard park for kids and adults to enjoy. So if you are visiting Antibes, take a moment to visit the Fort, it is not far from the train station and the old town, and I am sure you will not be disappointed." - Trip Advisor
"The inner part of Fort Carre is accessible only by a 45 min long guided tour (3 Euros). Our guide spoke good English, gave us a great intro into the history of the place (why does it have 4 angles and where do they point? is there really a 500 year old door guarding the fort?) and gave us enough time to explore the place and beautiful views from above. One of the best and more informational tours of the Riviera, recommended to all." - Trip Advisor

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.