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Origin and history

The Musée du Masque de fer et du Fort Royal, originally named Musée de la Mer until 2021, is located in the Royal Fort of Île Sainte-Marguerite, off Cannes (Alpes-Maritimes). Filed in the Musée de France in 2003, it presents archaeological remains from underground and underwater excavations, as well as explanatory models. The fort, built around Roman tanks, was transformed into a state prison in 1685, sheltering man with an iron mask (1687–98) and political prisoners such as Napoleon's Mamluks or Protestants imprisoned for religious crimes in the 17th–15th centuries.

The Old Castle, the heart of the fort, dates from the 17th century and now houses the museum and the old prisons. Created in 1977, the museum also exhibits contemporary works and organizes temporary exhibitions. Archaeological excavations (1973–1986) revealed an occupation of the site of the 6th century BC in the 4th century AD, with ancient remains like a rampart and houses. The fort, which was listed as a Historical Monument in 1927, was also a place of detention for Algerians (1843–56), a cemetery which still bears witness.

The fort was originally built as a home by Jean de Bellon (after 1618), then fortified between 1624 and 1627. Occupied by the Spaniards (1635–37), it was taken over by France and modified by Vauban (projects of 1692 and 1700), with additions such as a powder shop and barracks. In the 19th century it served as barracks and prison, with facilities such as the Convention battery (1860). A Huguenot Memorial (1950) pays tribute to six Protestant ministers imprisoned for life.

The excavations of Georges Vindry (1973–1986) and the studies of Annie Arnaud (1995) allowed to map the basements, revealing ancient structures. A 30×5 m trench, protected by a barrier, shows visitors the rampart wall and the layout of the houses. The museum, labeled for its public interest, also preserves works of art and objects related to prison history, such as the Iron Mask cell.

The fort illustrates the military and prison developments in the region, moving from a strategic stronghold to a political prison. Temporary summer exhibitions and archaeological remains make it a historical and cultural site. The presence of Algerian prisoners (1841–56) and Protestant pastors recalls its role in religious and colonial conflicts, while the arrangements of the nineteenth century reflect its adaptation to changing military needs.

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