Castle of If: Quick access entrance

Immerse yourself in history and literature by visiting the fortress and prison of the Château d'If, the famous inspiration for the novel "The Count of Monte Cristo" (1844) by Alexandre Dumas. During your tour, you will meet the prisoners who were imprisoned here and enjoy spectacular views of the Vieux Port with direct access to the castle, avoiding the queues. Originally built by Francis I of France to protect the coast of Marseille from invaders, the Château d'If functioned between 1580 and 1871 as a prison, housing Protestants, republicans and anyone who challenged official authority. Among its historic inmates were figures such as Mirabeau and the Communards of 1871, considered revolutionary heroes. The most famous prisoner is undoubtedly Edmond Dantès, the protagonist of Dumas' play. Although Dantès spent 14 years in prison in fiction, your visit will be brief and is full of history, legend and picturesque panoramas, including a boat ride that enhances the experience.