Right by the waterfront, this stone tower quietly tells the story of Sainte-Maxime through centuries of change. It’s one of those places you might walk past quickly, yet it holds layers of history worth slowing down for.

The Musée de la Tour Carrée, located in Sainte-Maxime on the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, dates back to 1520, when it was first built to protect the coastline from attacks. Over time, it evolved with the needs of the town. It served as a defensive tower, a seigneurial residence, a granary, a prison, a school, and even the town hall until 1935.

Its structure reflects this long history, with thick stone walls and a compact design shaped by both military and civilian uses. Carefully restored from 1969 onwards, the tower now reveals its original exposed stone appearance, giving it a strong visual presence along the seafront.

For several decades, the building housed the Museum of Local Traditions, preserving the cultural identity of Sainte-Maxime. Today, it remains closely linked to local heritage, especially through the traditions of the Bravade, a historic festival still celebrated in the town.

👉 Local Tip: Combine your visit with a walk along the seafront in the early evening. The light on the stone tower is softer, and the atmosphere around the old town feels more relaxed after the daytime crowds.