Sisteron Citadel, Sisteron, France

Between Provence and Dauphiné, dominating the cluse where the Durance flows, the Citadelle of Sisteron dominates the sky, crowning the town with its walls, bastions and keep. The view from here is breathtaking, stretching for 150 km and offering one of the finest vantage points in Haute Provence. It bears witness to eight centuries of architecture and history. The keep and sentry walk, built on the narrow rocky spine, date back to the 12th century. The tiered bastioned enclosures dating from the 16th century of the Vauban project, designed in 1692, only the powder magazine was built.

Major alterations were carried out on the north face in the mid-19th century. It was at this time that the magnificent underground staircase linking the fortress to the town was carved out of the rock.

User Reviews

Jane King (9 months ago)
Not for those with mobility issues! Lots of steps and several with no hand rails. It’s a circular route so once you start, you are committed- hard work on a hot day! Otherwise, an amazing place to visit with great views and lots of history.

Yuib Kys (9 months ago)
Beautiful and authentic. The signs are nearly placed so you walk in a circle through it and see everything

bob Rowley (12 months ago)
Visited the lovely town of Sisteron and found a parking spot in the centre of town ( free of charge on a sunday) Well worth a visit to see the old town surrounded by imposing mountains.

Miguel Cornelisse (2 years ago)
Beautiful citadel on top of the mountain. The price of the tickets to enter are all worth it. We visited on a super warm day but we were prepared and bring enough water. When following the patch (Green arrows) there is lots of information provided about the history of the Citadel and the Historical city of Sisteron. I can't remember exactly but there were like 12 or maybe even more defensive lines built in the complex of the Citadel. Impressive system made of pull up bridges, small stairs, arrow / shooting holes, watch towers. Invaders did not make a change thinking about that. Very interesting! There is a possibility to go all the way to the highest point into the tower on top of the Citadel. Stunning view from there but actually the view is amazing from everywhere. Not recommended to go on flip flops because of the walking up and downhill.

Eddy Khoo (2 years ago)
Wow! Wow! Wow! Talk about awesomeness, this is one of it. Put on your walking/hiking shoes then work up a bit of sweat but well worth it. Entrance per adult is €7.10, which is a steal with the views that this citadel presents. “A picture speaks a thousand words”.

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Photo from Flickr, copyright Christian Lauw

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Sisteron Citadel

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