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Musée du Masque de fer et du Fort Royal: A Glimpse into History

Discover history and mystery at the Fort Royal museum on Île Sainte-Marguerite, once home to the Man in the Iron Mask.

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Located on the Île Sainte-Marguerite, the Musée du Masque de fer et du Fort Royal offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. Explore the former prison of the 'Man in the Iron Mask' and discover underwater archaeological finds.

A brief summary to Musée du Masque de fer et du Fort Royal

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the island and exploring the fort.
  • Bring water and snacks, as options on the island are limited.
  • Check the ferry schedule in advance to plan your visit.
  • Allow at least 3 hours to explore the island and museum.
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Getting There

  • Ferry

    The primary way to reach the Musée du Masque de fer et du Fort Royal is by ferry from Cannes. Ferries depart regularly from Quai Max Laubeuf in Cannes. A round-trip ticket costs approximately €18.50 for adults. The ferry journey takes about 15-30 minutes. Upon arrival at Île Sainte-Marguerite, the fort and museum are approximately a 15-minute walk (900m) from the landing stage. Follow the signs towards Fort Royal.

  • Walking

    Once on Île Sainte-Marguerite, the Musée du Masque de fer et du Fort Royal is accessible by foot. From the ferry landing, follow the main path towards the center of the island, following signs for Fort Royal. The walk is approximately 15 minutes and offers scenic views of the island's forests. There are no additional costs for walking to the museum once on the island.

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Discover more about Musée du Masque de fer et du Fort Royal

The Musée du Masque de fer et du Fort Royal, situated within the historic Fort Royal on Île Sainte-Marguerite, invites visitors to delve into the island's captivating past. Just a short ferry ride from Cannes, the museum showcases a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Île Sainte-Marguerite, the largest of the Lérins Islands, offers a tranquil escape filled with the scents of pine and eucalyptus. The island's rich history is palpable, with remnants of ancient civilizations and centuries of strategic importance. The Fort Royal, a classified historical monument, has served as a Roman settlement, a medieval stronghold, and a state prison. The museum, housed within the oldest part of the Fort Royal, features a diverse collection of artifacts and exhibits that shed light on the island's multifaceted history. One of the museum's highlights is its collection of underwater archaeology, featuring artifacts recovered from Roman and Saracen shipwrecks discovered near the island. These items, including ceramics, amphorae, and glassware, offer a glimpse into the maritime trade and naval activity that once thrived in the region. Perhaps the most famous aspect of the fort is its history as a prison, most notably for the mysterious 'Man in the Iron Mask'. While the museum explores the theories surrounding his identity, it also delves into the stories of other prisoners and the fort's role in French history. The island itself was declared an historical monument in 1927.

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