Last chance to visit the Mont Alban fort

For the first time, the Mont Alban fort is open to the public

The fort, classified as an historic monument in 1909, is situated in one of the highest naturally protected zones of the Niçois coast. Thanks to the efforts of Mayor Christian Estrosi and Jean-Marc Giaume - in charge of heritage matters - the Mont A1ban fort has been undergoing restoration work since 2010 to preserve and maintain this example of Niçois military architecture.

This summer, exceptionally, the doors have been opened to the public, with a guided tour in French, a special exhibition dedicated to the history of the fort from its origins to the present day, and a 3D model.

The fort was constructed between 1557 and 1560 by architect Domenico Ponsello on the orders of Emmanuel Philibert, Duke of Savoy, following the siege of Nice in 1543. It was part of an overall defensive project put forward by Gianmaria Olgiati, general engineer to Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor of the day, which also included the Château of Nice and the Citadelle of Villefranche-sur-Mer.  

The fort remains open until 11th September. Guided visits are available at 3pm and 4pm from Wednesday to Sunday; tickets are €5 and must be bought in advance from the Centre du Patrimoine, 75 quai des Etats-Unis.

Carolyn Reynier