Fort St-André, Villeneuve-lés-Avignon, France

A massive look-out tower

Medieval security system: a look-out tower

This sprawling 14th-century fort sits high on a mountaintop across the river from Avignon. I was curious to check it out since its grandness is visible from many surrounding points.

Window view

Window view

Inside the courtyard

Inside the courtyard

Up close, it’s just as massive and solid as it appears from afar.

Surrounding ruins

Surrounding ruins

In the 13th century, Fort St-André was built on Mount Andaon on the former border of France and the Holy Roman Empire. It was commissioned by King Philippe le Bel to protect the Kingdom of France. Later, the fort was handy to keep an eye on the new neighbors, the popes, across the Rhône.

Great viewpoint!

Great viewpoint!

The best part was walking along the ramparts and taking in the view from the Tour des Masques (Mask Tower) and Tour Jumelles (Twin Towers).

Avignon waaaay in the distance

Avignon waaaay in the distance

It was a treat to switch perspectives and see Avignon across the countryside.

Another courtyard view

Another courtyard view

Well worth the climb!

Well worth the climb!

No address, but you can’t miss it!

30400 Villeneuve-les-Avignon

€5.50

10 a.m. – 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. – 5.30 p.m.

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