Port Vauban

Port Vauban is one of the oldest ports in the Mediterranean, with a rich history dating back to antiquity.

As early as the 5th century BC, the Phocaeans of Massalia (Marseille) founded the colony of Antipolis on the current site of Antibes. The Saint-Roch cove, where the port is located today, then served as a natural refuge for ships, facilitating trade and maritime exchanges.

In the Middle Ages, Antibes became a strategic port, particularly during the Crusades. A first dike was built in the 16th century to protect the port. In 1648, a jetty was added, reinforcing the port infrastructure.

At the end of the 17th century, the Saint-Jaume bastion was built to the east of the cove, contributing to the defense of the city.

In the 17th century, under the leadership of the military engineer Vauban, the port and fortifications of Antibes were redeveloped to strengthen the coastal defense of the Kingdom of France. This work gave the port increased strategic importance.

In the 1970s, the port underwent a major transformation to become the current Port Vauban, now recognized as the largest marina in Europe. Today it welcomes luxury yachts and plays a central role in the region's economy and tourism.

The port is also a place of cultural heritage, with iconic sites such as Fort Carré and the Bastion Saint-Jaume, which bear witness to the military and maritime history of Antibes. The port continues to evolve, while preserving its rich historical heritage.