Rue Obscure (Dark Street), Villefranche-sur-Mer (must see)

Tucked beneath the old quarter of Villefranche-sur-Mer, Dark Street (Rue Obscure) is a hidden medieval passageway that transports visitors back in time. Stretching 130 meters (430 feet) beneath the village, this dimly lit tunnel-like street was originally built in 1260 for military purposes, allowing soldiers to move through the town unseen. Initially uncovered, it was part of the defensive roundabout along the first rampart. Over the centuries, as urbanization encroached, buildings were constructed over the street, sealing it off from daylight and creating the mysterious, shadowy corridor that remains today.

Despite its transformation, Dark Street never disappeared. Instead, it evolved into a passageway used for various purposes, including a makeshift wine cellar for local businesses and a shelter for livestock such as donkeys and goats. The street’s enclosed nature and medieval architecture, with its ancient stone walls and low arches, make it one of Villefranche-sur-Mer’s most fascinating historical landmarks. Visitors today can still see the Portal Robert, one of the four original access points to the fortified town.

Recognized as a Historic Monument since 1932, Dark Street is a must-visit for those exploring Villefranche’s Old Town. The tunnel-like path, illuminated only by scattered lamps or the occasional glow of a phone, retains an eerie yet enchanting atmosphere.