Le Fort Saint André

Discover the Saint-André Fort in Villeneuve-lez-Avignon, an ancient sentinel offering since the 14th century a breathtaking view of Mont Ventoux and the Alpilles, as well as of the Philippe le Bel Tower and the Papal Palace in Avignon.

Strategic role: Commanded at the end of the 13th century by Philippe le Bel, the fort was built in the 1360s under Jean le Bon on the border with the Holy Roman Empire and near the papal residence in Avignon. Its strategic importance declined after 1480 when Provence became French, but soldiers remained until 1792.

Symbol of royal power, the Saint-André Fort had a permanent garrison, a court of justice, and a prison, evidenced by the graffiti of 18th and 19th-century prisoners.