The tower's name refers to the 'constancy' of faith displayed by the Protestant prisoners held within its walls.
The interior of the tower walls still bears graffiti carved by prisoners, most notably the word 'Résister' carved into the floor by Marie Durand.
Marie Durand was held captive in the tower for 38 years, from age 19 to 57, for refusing to renounce her religion.
The structure was designed to protect the royal port of Aigues-Mortes, which served as a major departure point for the Seventh and Eighth Crusades.
The lantern tower atop the main structure once served as a lighthouse to guide ships through the marshy terrain and canals.
The Constancy Tower (Tour de Constance) is the primary defensive bastion of the medieval fortifications of Aigues-Mortes, located at the northwest corner of the city walls. Built under Louis IX in the 13th century, this 30-meter high cylindrical keep served as both a royal residence and a notorious state prison. The tower features walls reaching 6 meters in thickness at the base and a vaulted central hall. During the 18th century, it was used to imprison Huguenot women who refused to abjure their Protestant faith. The interior layout consists of two superimposed vaulted rooms connected by a spiral staircase. A terrace at the summit provides an elevated view of the Camargue wetlands and the surrounding salt marshes. The tower remains connected to the ramparts but stands isolated as a distinct citadel structure. It is currently managed by the Centre des monuments nationaux.
From the roof terrace looking down toward the grid layout of the medieval town and the surrounding Camargue salt flats.
Bring a light jacket or sweater, as the internal stone walls retain a chill even during summer months.
Climb to the rooftop terrace early to avoid the midday sun, as there is no shade on the upper level.
Wear shoes with good grip, as the spiral stone stairs can be worn and slippery.
Attempting to climb the ramparts immediately after the tower without checking the combined access requirements.
Closed on January 1st, May 1st, and December 25th.
Maintain a respectful tone due to the site's history as a place of incarceration and religious persecution.
