Citadel of Sisteron

Visit the Citadel of Sisteron, a historic site nestled between the Alps and Provence. From spring to fall, discover this iconic heritage site in a variety of ways. Starting in spring, enjoy guided tours led by passionate guides. In summer, tours are offered at sunset, ideal because it's cooler! Also, bring the kids for the falconry shows to see birds of prey flying freely in the sky.

History of the Citadel of Sisteron, a strategic location

Since the Romans, this strategic location, a rocky spur overlooking the valley, has been a necessary and narrow passage between Provence and Dauphiné. Throughout the ages, men have devised plans, built and fortified the walls of what is today a citadel overlooking Sisteron.

The Citadel of Sisteron, eight centuries of history

From the distant past, there remain a keep and the 1692th-century patrol path, and XNUMXth-century ramparts. In XNUMX, Vauban also coveted this strategic location and undertook plans to modernize and strengthen the fortress. Of his ambitious project, he only completed the powder magazine.

In the middle of the 19th century, the magnificent underground staircase linking the citadel to the town of Sisteron was also dug into the rock.

Today, you will see a collection of structures from very diverse periods: walls, bastions, patrol paths, keep. By exploring this listed historical monument, you will travel through more than eight centuries of architecture and history.

How to visit the Citadel of Sisteron

The citadel can be visited from mid-March to mid-November. The visit lasts approximately 1 hours.. Remember to wear good shoes as there are many steps to climb.

Take the time to climb step by step to the top. You will be rewarded by discovering a impressive 360° viewpointAn orientation table and its telescope to help you find your way, with a view covering 150 km around.

Will you tremble as you go to the Devil's sentry box? Will you dare to enter the dungeon where John Casimir of Poland was held? Will you feel the mistral along the patrol paths? Will you rediscover your school lessons by visiting the museum and the exhibitions, particularly those about Napoleon and Vauban? Will you also be moved by the magnificent stained-glass windows in the chapel?

Visit the citadel differently

In spring and autumn heritage guides take you and are happy to share their knowledge of the history of the place with you. In summer, guided tours do not take place during the day but in the evening, at sunset. You will then spend a moment out of time with less heat.

In July and August, also come with the children during the falconry shows, an original idea to enhance a family visit.

In August, treat yourself to a trip back in time! Come and discover with family and in medieval costume the "Passage du fort" - Festival of Medieval Arts and Crafts.

Our selection of activities

Highligths

On summer evenings, the Nuits de la Citadelle festival offers performances in the open-air theater, in a grandiose setting. The biggest names in theater, dance, and music have already performed for one evening.

This emblematic festival is one of the oldest in Provence.

Answers to your questions