The tower was originally built as part of a larger complex known as the Commandery of Saint-Blaise.
It is one of the rare surviving examples of Templar architecture in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region.
The transition of ownership from the Knights Templar to the Order of Malta occurred in 1312.
The building served as the official town hall (Hôtel de Ville) of Hyères for several centuries starting in the 17th century.
The structure underwent extensive restoration in the early 21st century to stabilize the masonry and preserve its interior frescoes.
The ground floor lacks windows, emphasizing its original purpose as a secure storage area or pantry for the order.
The Tour des Templiers is a 12th-century Romanesque watchtower located in the historic center of Hyères, serving as the last remaining vestige of the Knights Templar commandery in the city. Constructed using local limestone, the square-plan structure features a ground floor once used for storage and an upper floor that functioned as a chapel dedicated to Saint Blaise. The tower was integrated into the city's fortification system during the Middle Ages to monitor the surrounding plains and the Mediterranean coastline. Following the dissolution of the Templar order in the early 14th century, ownership transitioned to the Order of Malta. The building has served various functions throughout history, including use as a town hall and a prison. Today, the site operates as a dedicated exhibition space managed by the municipality of Hyères. Its architecture reflects military defensive design, notably characterized by its thick walls and limited fenestration. It is situated directly on Place Massillon, the oldest square in the medieval quarter.
From the lower end of the steps on Place Massillon looking upward to capture the full verticality of the tower against the sky.
Wear comfortable, flat-soled shoes as the surrounding streets feature uneven, steep, and original medieval cobblestones.
Combine your visit with a walk through the surrounding Vieille Ville (Old Town) to view the preserved medieval gates.
Check the exhibition schedule in advance, as the interior is only accessible during specific rotating art or historical displays.
Do not attempt to drive into the immediate vicinity; the medieval streets are extremely narrow and restricted to residents.
Closed on Mondays and during periods of exhibition installation.
Maintain a quiet demeanor inside the gallery space; avoid touching the exposed historic stone walls.
