2025
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A fort built by order of the Duke of Savoy to protect the town from the Turkish invaders who were ravaging the northern Mediterranean
Fort Mont-Alban is located in a beautiful natural park, overlooking the Baie des Anges. Everyone in Nice knows it, but few have visited it. In addition to its historical interest, the site offers an exceptional view from the Villefranche-sur-Mer harbor to the Estérel massif. Imposing in its polygonal shape, this fortress-like structure remains perfectly preserved despite the many assaults it suffered during the Second World War. Below, signposted footpaths (including the GR de Pays Lou Camin Nissart) and numerous playgrounds are ideal for picnics. The fort was built over a period of several years, from 1557 to 1560, on a hilltop at an altitude of 220 metres, offering a strategic view of the surrounding area. The fort was equipped with heavy artillery and served as a defensive bastion during the First and Second World Wars. In the years following the Second World War, the fort was decommissioned and fell into disrepair. In recent years, however, efforts have been made to restore and preserve the fort as a cultural heritage site. Today, the fort is open to the public and visitors can explore the various tunnels, barracks and gun emplacements that once formed the fort. The site offers breathtaking panoramic views over the city of Nice and the Mediterranean Sea. If the weather is clear and the sun is shining, you may even catch a glimpse of Corsica!
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Further information
Opening time and information on MONTALBAN FORT
Closed from October to June. Wednesdays open from 9 to 10 am and 11 to 12 am. Sundays guided tours at 9, 10 and 11 am. Open every day. Closed August 15th. Free admission for children under 18. Adults: €7. Reduced rate 3 € (students, jobseekers, disabled persons, seniors, Lignes d'Azur subscribers). Guided tour (organized by the Heritage Center, booking required).
Members' reviews on MONTALBAN FORT
The ratings and reviews below reflect the subjective opinions of members and not the opinion of The Little Witty.
In the middle of the 16th century, Nice was one of the essential points of the Savoy States Defense system in the face of Turkish invaders, allied with the French since 1543. The Rade de Villefranche-sur-Mer, because of its depth and sheltered situation, is the main commercial port of the region until the opening of the Port of Nice in the 18th century. It was also the Savoy War Port for four centuries.
In 1557, the Fort du Mont-Alban was built on the orders of Emmanuel Philibert, Duke of Savoie.
This massive work is designed as a complement to the fortresses of Nice and Villefranche-sur-Mer, and to control their connection: north of Mont Boron, the Fort du Mont-Alban flanks the Citadel Saint-Elme and the Dars of Villefranche-sur-Mer built at the same time, and protects the west of the city.