Fort Mont-Alban, Nice

Fort Mont-Alban is a historical military fortification located on a hill between Nice and Villefranche in France. It was built under the leadership of Emmanuel Philibert, the Duke of Savoy, between 1557 and 1560 and served as the border between the states of Savoy and Nice. The fort has a rectangular plan and measures 40 by 46 meters on each side. Its ramparts are pierced with embrasures and are extended by corner bastions in the shape of a very prominent ace of pikes, flanked by stone sentry boxes. The fort can accommodate a garrison of about fifty soldiers.

The fort is strategically located 220 meters above sea level, providing a magnificent panoramic view of the entire French Riviera. The view from its terrace stretches from the tip of Bordighera to the Estérel Massif, via Cap d'Ail, Saint Jean Cap Ferrat, the Angel's Bay, Nice, and the Garoupe Antibes. In bright sunshine, it is even possible to see Corsica.

Fort Mont-Alban has been registered as a historical monument since 1909 for the enclosure of the fort, in 1913 for its surrounding walls and ditches, and in 1923 for the perimeter of 250 meters on which it is built. It is a rare example of military architecture from the mid-sixteenth century that has been well-preserved. Its historical significance and strategic location make it a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over the world.