Villefranche-sur-Mer, a charming coastal town between Nice and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, has a rich and fascinating history. Founded in the 13th century, the town has undergone many political and cultural changes, including the influence of the Kingdom of Sardinia and foreign forces. This article traces the milestones in its history.
The foundation of Villefranche in 1295
All began in 1295, when Charles II d’Anjou, Count of Provence, founded Villefranche-sur-Mer. The aim was to repopulate the coastal region, which had been severely affected by conflicts and the outbreak of the plague. To encourage this population renewal, he granted tax exemptions to new inhabitants. This strategic decision was aimed at boosting the local economy and reinforcing the security of the coast.
Nice and the Duchy of Savoy in 1388
Right beside the town, Nice, which until then had belonged to the kingdom of France, was given to the Duke of Savoy in 1388, marking the beginning of a new era for the region. Under the direction of the Dukes of Savoy, the city was fortified in 1543 to resist external threats, notably its struggle with the Ottoman Empire. The Mont Alban fort was also built at this time, reinforcing the defense of Nice and its surroundings.
Conflicts of the 18th Century
In 1720, Nice and Villefranche became part of the Kingdom of Sardinia when the Duke of Savoy became King of Sardinia. In the 18th century, life in the region was turbulent: Nice was occupied several times by French forces. They attacked Mont Alban in 1744, driving out the Savoyards belonging to the Kingdom of Sardinia. This change of power had repercussions on Villefranche, which lost its importance with the construction of the Port Lympia in Nice. The French later attempted to annex Villefranche, but it remained under the authority of the Duke of Savoy.
Russian presence in the late 19th century
At the end of the 19th century, the Imperial Russian Navy obtained a lease on the Villefranche lazaretto. This illustrates the strategic importance of Villefranche’s harbor, which became a refuge for Russian ships during conflicts with the Ottoman Empire. This partnership with Russia propelled the town into a period of prosperity, attracting not only Russian sailors, but also Russian and English aristocrats in search of sun and tranquility.
The Annexation to France in 1860
Finally, in 1860, the annexation of Villefranche-sur-Mer to the Kingdom of France marked a major turning point for the region. The annexation marked an economic and cultural turning point, as the town began to modernize and prepare for the arrival of tourists, attracted by its scenic beauty and proximity to the sea. Villefranche’s modernization was part of a wider process of transformation on the Riviera.
Nice was developing rapidly, attracting visitors from all over Europe. But Villefranche, with its protected natural harbor and more intimate atmosphere, quickly became a sought-after vacation spot, especially for the European aristocracy.
Nearby Beaulieu also benefited from this boom. The small seaside resort embellished itself with magnificent villas and luxurious hotels, attracting a wealthy clientele. As for Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, its relative isolation and wild landscapes made it an ideal location for the greatest fortunes of the era, notably British and Russian, who built sumptuous residences here.
This evolution transforms the three towns into a harmonious ensemble, where elegance and refinement blend with the authenticity of Villefranche’s narrow streets. They became favorite destinations for a cosmopolitan clientele ready to enjoy the sea, sun and fresh air. Villefranche, in particular, stands out for its picturesque port, a true emblem of local history and a privileged refuge for travelers in search of calm and serenity.
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