Chateau d'If is a historic fortress located on a small island off the coast of Marseille, France. The fortress was built in the 16th century as a defensive structure to protect the city from sea attacks. It was later used as a prison during the 17th and 18th centuries, and is most famously known for being the setting of Alexandre Dumas' novel "The Count of Monte Cristo."
The fortress is made up of three levels, with the first level consisting of a courtyard and a chapel. The second level contains the prison cells, which were notoriously small and cramped. Visitors can still see the narrow cells and the graffiti left by former prisoners on the walls. The third level is the terrace, which offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding coastline.
The island itself is also worth exploring, with its rocky terrain and picturesque views. Visitors can take a boat tour to the island and spend a few hours exploring the fortress and the island. The Chateau d'If is a must-visit destination for history buffs and literature enthusiasts alike, offering a glimpse into the past and the inspiration for one of the most famous novels of all time.
