Château d'If, Marseille
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Château d'If - by Jan Drewes (CC BY-SA 2.5)
Description
The Château d'If is a small island in the Frioul archipelago, about 1.5km off Marseille. The 3ha island was a fortress and prison with high ramparts best known for being the setting of the captivity of Edmond Dantes in the Count of Monte Cristo novel. It was built as a defensive position for the city in the early 16th century; the structure measures 28m on each side and is flanked by three towers. The strength of the offshore current made it ideal as a prison and it saw large numbers of political and religious detainees; no prisoner is known to have escaped.
Access & Transport
The island can only be reached by boat, directly from the Vieux Port with the "lebateau" ferry service (link below) or as part of a tour. https://www.lebateau-frioul-if.fr/en/buy/ The Vieux Port itself is centrally located in the city and next to the "Vieux Port" metro station on the M1 line.
Instructions & Recommendations
Make sure to check the ferry schedule ahead of time, particularly during the winter/off-season and, if you need to wait, you can use that time to explore the Vieux Port area.
Environmental & Social
Small carbon footprint from the ferry ride. Helps preserve the city's historical heritage.
Conclusion
The Château d'If is worth a visit on cultural grounds: for its role as a defensive position of one of the Mediterranean Sea largest harbours and as a high-profile prison in the 17-19th century period. The association with the Count of Monte Cristo adds a charm to it, but we would not recommend travellers to go out of their way to visit a building purely on account of a fictional character.
Key positive
Mixes some short harbour cruise elements with a more cultural activity
Great views over the city and the Frioul archipelago
Key negative
Dependent on ferry schedule
Ferry ticket adds up to the total cost
Suitability
Not accessible for visitors with mobility issues as there are steps from the ferry pier to the chateau (50) and inside the building as well (100). Suitable for all ages
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
June 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:1h
est. visit time:3h
Start of Season 1:Apr, 01
MONDAY10:00 - 18:00
TUESDAY10:00 - 18:00
WEDNESDAY10:00 - 18:00
THURSDAY10:00 - 18:00
FRIDAY10:00 - 18:00
SATURDAY10:00 - 18:00
SUNDAY10:00 - 18:00
Start of Season 2:Oct, 01
MONDAY -
TUESDAY10:00 - 17:15
WEDNESDAY10:00 - 17:15
THURSDAY10:00 - 17:15
FRIDAY10:00 - 17:15
SATURDAY10:00 - 17:15
SUNDAY10:00 - 17:15