Antibes

Antibes, a seaside city on the French Riviera, has a rich archaeological and historical significance. Originally founded by Greek Phocaeans as the colony Antipolis in the 4th century BCE, it served as a vital trade post. The town's strategic location led to its development over centuries, with notable structures such as the medieval Château Grimaldi and the 16th-century Fort Carré, constructed to protect against invasions. Religious influence is marked by the establishment of the Bishopric in the 5th century CE and the multiple reconstructions of the Antibes Cathedral, which was repeatedly destroyed by invaders. The town's dynamic history includes periods of Saracen raids, rule under the Genoese Grimaldi family, and significant fortification during the Early Modern Period, reflecting its enduring importance as a maritime and cultural hub.