Souvenir Medal Monnaie de Paris 2009 - Château d'If, Marseille (13)

The Château d'If is a well-known castle situated on the island of If, a small limestone island in the Bay of Marseille, France. It was originally constructed in the early 16th century as a defensive fortress to protect against maritime threats. In the 17th century, it was repurposed as a famous prison where political prisoners, particularly Protestants, were incarcerated. The castle's notoriety is largely due to its portrayal in Alexandre Dumas' novel, "The Count of Monte Cristo," where the central character, Edmond Dantès, is imprisoned in Château d'If before escaping and embarking on a quest for revenge. Today, Château d'If is a popular tourist attraction, allowing visitors to explore its historical chambers and savor breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. It also holds literary significance for its association with Dumas' literary masterpiece.