Massillon Gate

On your right is Place de la Rade, where you’ll spot the Massillon Gate, also known as the Gate of the Rade. Step a little closer and take a good look. Built in the 14th century, it was one of the main entrances to the city during the medieval period, when Hyères was surrounded by fortified walls to protect it from enemy attacks. Back then, the town had five gates like this one, along with nine towers that were used to keep watch over the surrounding area.

Even today, the Massillon Gate still marks the entrance to Hyères’ old town. It’s named after Jean-Baptiste Massillon, a famous bishop and gifted orator best known for delivering King Louis XIV’s funeral eulogy in 1715. The gate leads into a street and a square also bearing his name. Its second name, the Gate of the Rade, is a reminder that this used to be the main access point for goods entering the city, since it opened onto the plains leading to the harbour.

Look up and you’ll see a lovely old clock sitting at the top of the arch, added much later, probably during the 17th or 18th century. The entire structure was listed as a Historic Monument in 1926.