Located on the heights of Villefranche-sur-Mer, the Saint-Elme Citadel is an impressive fortress built in the 16th century during the reign of the Duke of Savoy, Emmanuel-Philibert. Designed to protect the Bay of Villefranche and the port of La Darse, it stands as a remarkable example of bastioned military architecture. Classified as a historic monument, the Citadel was restored in the 1980s and now houses a chapel, gardens, an open-air stage, museums, and the town hall.
The Saint-Elme Chapel, dating back to the 16th century, was converted into an exhibition space in 1981 following the site’s restoration. Covering an area of 135 m², it features an 18th-century fresco and niches containing sculptures of Saint-Elme and Saint-Michel.
The gardens, including the rose garden and the Échauguette garden, offer a peaceful and flower-filled setting.
The open-air stage, also known as the Théâtre de Verdure, offers breathtaking views of the Bay of Villefranche and the Mediterranean, providing a magical setting for various outdoor events.
The Bastion of La Turbie, built in 1557 under Duke Emmanuel-Philibert of Savoy, is an early example of Italian-style bastioned fortification, predating the work of Vauban. It played a key strategic role during the wars of Louis XIV. The Volti Museum, located within the bastion’s former casemates, is dedicated to the work of French sculptor Volti, of Italian origin.
The Villefranche-sur-Mer town hall has been located here since 1981. The building is notable for its colorful façade and arcades, while the interior features elegant pastel-toned decor.
