Stade Du Fort Carré

Stade du Fort Carré Antibes: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Stade du Fort Carré, located along the renowned Mediterranean coastline of the French Riviera, is a standout destination in Antibes that seamlessly blends centuries of military history with a vibrant sporting and cultural present. Sitting adjacent to the iconic 16th-century Fort Carré—a remarkable star-shaped bastioned fortress originally constructed under King Henry II—the stadium is both a historical landmark and a hub of community life (Provence Lovers, Wikipedia - Fort Carré). Over the decades, the area has evolved from a strategic military outpost to a center for physical education, civic engagement, and local sports.

Today, Stade du Fort Carré continues to play a central role in Antibes’ sporting and cultural scene, hosting football clubs, athletics, concerts, and community events, all against the backdrop of the fort’s ramparts and sweeping sea views (Wikipedia - Stade du Fort Carré, Olympique d’Antibes Official). This guide provides detailed information on the stadium’s history, visitor tips, hours, ticketing, accessibility, and nearby attractions, ensuring an enriching experience for all visitors (Antibes-Juan-les-Pins Official Site).

Historical Overview
Visiting Information
Upcoming Events and Activities
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Tips
References

Historical Overview

Origins and Early Development

The roots of Stade du Fort Carré are closely tied to Fort Carré itself, which was established in the 16th century to protect France’s borders from neighboring powers (Provence Lovers). The fort’s design, attributed to Jean de Renaud and later improved by Vauban in the 17th century, exemplifies Renaissance military architecture. Following the fort’s decommissioning in the late 19th century, the surrounding lands shifted from military to civic use, paving the way for sports and community development (TEPAS).

Construction and Significance

In 1919, a partnership between the Ministry of War and the city of Antibes led to the creation of a regional center for physical education on the site. Inaugurated in 1920, the stadium was designed by architect Edmond Copello. It featured expansive playing fields, running tracks, and substantial spectator seating, accommodating over 15,000 people in its early years (Wikipedia). The addition of a war memorial in 1927 enhanced the site’s patriotic atmosphere.

Notable Sporting Events

The stadium’s most prominent era came in the 1930s, when it hosted top-flight football matches, including the 1938 FIFA World Cup quarter-final between Sweden and Cuba—a historic event attended by nearly 7,000 spectators (TEPAS). Over the years, the stadium became a focal point for local clubs, especially Olympique d’Antibes, and a training ground for both civilian and military athletes.

Wartime and Transformation

During World War II, the stadium continued to host matches while Fort Carré was used as an assembly center. Post-war, the site reverted to military training purposes, with a strong emphasis on physical fitness and fencing. The relocation of the military center in 1967 marked a shift towards broader community use (Nice Matin).

Modern Legacy

Today, with a seating capacity of around 4,000, Stade du Fort Carré remains a key venue for local football (FC Antibes), athletics, and cultural gatherings (Wikipedia). Ongoing restoration and integration with the adjacent Fort Carré have solidified the area’s role as both a sports destination and a site of historical interest (Provence Lovers).

Visiting Information

Hours and Tickets

Stadium: Generally open to the public during daylight hours and for scheduled events; check local listings for event-specific times.
Fort Carré: Open daily from 10:00 to 18:00 in summer (June 15 – September 15); 10:00 to 17:00 the rest of the year; closed on Mondays and select holidays.
Tickets: Entry to the stadium is usually free except during major events. Fort Carré admission is typically €3 for adults, free for children and certain groups. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online (06.agendaculturel.fr).

Accessibility

Stadium: Wheelchair-accessible entrances and seating are available; contact the venue in advance for specific needs.
Fort Carré: Due to historic architecture and uneven terrain, the fort is not accessible to wheelchair users (antibes-juanlespins.com).

Getting There

Address: Avenue du 11 Novembre, 06600 Antibes.
Public Transit: Accessible via local buses (Envibus network); Antibes SNCF train station is about 1 km away (SNCF).
Parking: Free and paid parking nearby (space is limited during major events). A free shuttle runs from Antibes’ old town to the Fort Carré parking area (voyagetips.com).
Tour Bus: Open-bus tours include stops at the stadium and fort.

Facilities and Amenities

Seating: Both covered and open-air stands.
Concessions: Snack bars and local vendors operate during events.
Restrooms: Available on-site.
Security: Bag checks are standard; large bags are not allowed inside the fort.

Upcoming Events and Activities

Riviera Tag Fest 2025: A major tag rugby festival, September 20, 2025 (Riviera Tag Fest 2025 Event).
Ben Mazué Concert: June 12, 2025 (Ben Mazué Concert Event).
Regular Matches: Home games for FC Antibes and other local sporting events.
Fort Carré Guided Tours: Available year-round with in-depth historical insights.

For up-to-date event schedules and ticket availability, check the Antibes-Juan-les-Pins Official Sports Facilities Page and Olympique d’Antibes Official.

Nearby Attractions

Fort Carré: Guided tours, panoramic views, and history exhibits (Fort Carré Official).
Old Town Antibes: Provençal markets, narrow streets, and the Picasso Museum (Picasso Museum).
Port Vauban: Europe’s largest marina with scenic promenades (Port Vauban).
Beaches: Sandy stretches and coastal walks, such as Plage de la Gravette and Cap d’Antibes (thecrazytourist.com).
Juan-les-Pins: Lively nightlife and beachside entertainment (kirstiewilltravel.com).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the stadium and fort opening hours?
A: The stadium is open during events and daylight hours. Fort Carré: 10:00–18:00 (summer), 10:00–17:00 (rest of year), closed Mondays and select holidays.

Q: How do I purchase tickets?
A: Stadium entry is mostly free; special events require tickets, available online or at the venue. Fort Carré tickets are sold on-site or online.

Q: Is the stadium accessible for people with disabilities?
A: The stadium offers accessible entrances and seating. The fort is not wheelchair accessible.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, guided tours are available for Fort Carré. The stadium does not offer regular tours.

Q: What’s the best way to reach the site?
A: Use public transport, walk from the city center, or use the open-bus tour. Parking is limited during major events.

Summary and Tips

Stade du Fort Carré and the adjacent Fort Carré together offer a unique Riviera experience, where heritage and contemporary culture meet. The stadium’s storied past—including its role in the 1938 FIFA World Cup—combines with its ongoing function as a community sports and events hub. Meanwhile, the fort provides a window into the region’s military history and offers spectacular views over Antibes and the Baie des Anges (Provence Lovers, Wikipedia).

For a well-rounded visit:

Plan your trip during spring or early autumn for pleasant weather.
Combine a stadium event with a guided fort tour for a full historical and cultural experience.
Explore Antibes’ old town, museums, and marina for a day of discovery.
Use public transport or arrive early to secure parking during major events.
Stay updated on events and tickets via official websites and the Audiala app for exclusive content (Audiala).