The Island of the Count of Monte Cristo in Marseille

There is an island called If Island outside the Old Port of Marseille, on which there is a fortress called Château d'If. It is said that the 'Count' in Alexandre Dumas's 'The Count of Monte Cristo' was imprisoned on the island. The fortress has been used as a prison for many years, which is why the plot of the novel exists. Now it has become a tourist attraction, and there are boats from the Old Port of Marseille to If Island. Most tourists probably go there to see the 'Count's' palace, and I went with the same mindset. However, due to strong winds for two consecutive days, all ships were suspended, and I could only look at the island and sigh. In 1792, to support the French Revolution, the people of Marseille sent a troop of 500 men who marched to Paris singing the inspiring 'La Marseillaise'. Today, 'La Marseillaise' has become the national anthem of France. The main attractions and tourists in Marseille are concentrated around the Old Port of Marseille, which is now filled with yachts. At the entrance of the port basin is Fort Saint-Jean, which was built in the 13th century. Connected to it is the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations, and nearby are the main cathedral of Marseille, Mediterranean villas, and other attractions. On the other side of the port basin are Fort Saint-Nicolas, the Abbey of Saint Victor, and most notably, the Basilica of Our Lady of the Guard and the observation deck on the small hilltop, which offer panoramic views of the city of Marseille, the Old Port of Marseille, and the islands outside the Old Port, as well as a clear view of the ships entering and leaving the port. I was in a rush and spent only one day, which really wasn't enough time; even a brief visit felt rushed. Reading 'Lonely Planet' makes it seem quite simple, but in reality, even two days would feel very tight. Perhaps missing some attractions will prompt a return visit. I hope so...