Palais de l'Isle

The Palais de l'Isle is a triangular stone fortress built on a small island in the Thiou River in Annecy. Its thick walls and towers rise directly from the water, creating the striking impression of a ship anchored between two channels.

The fortress was built in the 12th century as a residence for the Counts of Geneva and later transformed into an administrative and judicial center. Over the following centuries, it served many purposes including a courthouse, a mint, and a prison.

The building was the heart of local governance and justice for centuries, where decisions that affected the entire region were made. Walking through its rooms, you can sense how important it was to the community and how people depended on what happened within these walls.

The building is open most days of the week and visitors can explore the different rooms including old cells, a chapel, and courtrooms inside. It is easy to locate since it stands alone on the island in the middle of the old town and is visible from all directions.

The exterior of the fortress appears solid and imposing, yet many visitors are surprised to discover that the interior spaces are organized in unexpected ways that maximize the limited island area. The clever layout reveals how medieval builders adapted to working within tight physical constraints.

Location: Annecy

Location: old city of Annecy

Address: 3, passage de l'Île

Opening Hours: Monday 14:00-17:00; Wednesday-Sunday 14:00-17:00

Phone: +33485467680

Website: https://musees.annecy.fr/les-3-lieux/palais-de-lile

GPS coordinates: 45.89858,6.12683

Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:03