The Château d’If is a historic fortress and former prison located on the island of If, the smallest island in the Frioul archipelago. Situated in the Mediterranean Sea, it lies approximately 1.5 kilometers (about 7/8 mile) offshore in the Bay of Marseille, France. Constructed in the early 16th century, the fortress was built under the orders of King Francis I to defend the port of Marseille from naval attacks. The château’s strategic location made it an ideal point for guarding the coast and controlling maritime access to the city.

By the late 16th century, the Château d’If transitioned from a military fortress to a state prison. Its isolated and secure position made it an effective detention center for political prisoners, religious dissenters, and other notable captives. One of its most famous fictional prisoners is Edmond Dantès, the protagonist of Alexandre Dumas’ classic novel “The Count of Monte Cristo.” Dumas’ portrayal of Dantès’ imprisonment and dramatic escape brought worldwide fame to the Château d’If.

The fortress features thick stone walls, robust defensive structures, and a series of dungeons and cells that underscore its primary function as a place of confinement. Over the centuries, it has retained much of its original architecture, providing a glimpse into its past as both a military bastion and a notorious prison.

Today, the Château d’If is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its historical significance and literary connections. Accessible by boat from Marseille, it offers tours that allow visitors to explore its storied cells, ramparts, and panoramic views of the Mediterranean and the Marseille coastline.