Chateau d If, France

Chateau d If is located on the island of the same name in the Mediterranean Sea. It can be called one of the most famous castles in the world today. The fortification was built for the defense of Marseille in 1531. King Francis I initiated the construction of the fortress. However, the fortress was transformed into a prison less than a hundred years later. Especially dangerous criminals were kept in it. Chateau d If retained this gloomy status until the 19th century. It was decided to open a museum in it after the prison closed.

The fortress received the status of a historical monument of national significance in 1926. The ancient castle owes much of its fame to its literary fame. Alexandre Dumas wrote about the castle in his novel “The Count of Monte Cristo”. This novel remains one of the major masterpieces for French literature even today. The history of the castle became known around the world along with the incredible story of the writer. Part of the museum's exposition is dedicated to the work of Alexandre Dumas today.

Man in the Iron Mask was another world-famous prisoner, who praised the Chateau d If. It is noteworthy that neither he nor Edmond Dantes ever served a sentence at the fortress. All the beautiful stories and legends about them are just fiction. Excursions to the fortress remain one of the favorite entertainments for guests of Marseille. They are offered a lot of interesting entertainment here. Fascinating tours of the old prison cells are held in the castle. Various cultural events are also arranged here. The cafe is located in one of the open areas of the fortress today. Its visitors can enjoy a romantic panoramic view of Marseille. Next - Chateau de Rivau