By Antoine the 02/10/2021

The prehistoric site of Filitosa: a journey to the heart of 8,000 years of Corsican history

The prehistoric site of Filitosa, classified as a Historic Monument, invites you to discover its collection of archaeological remains, which are among the most beautiful in Europe.

Throwback to 1946. Charles-Antoine Cesari, the new owner of the site, discovered several menhirs buried in the maquis: 70 in total. Excavations were carried out for several years and made it possible to highlight the vast architectural complex made up of menhirs, enclosure walls, weapons and ceramic shards, but also a village and huts.

Research has determined that the site of Filitosa was occupied from the sixth millennium BC until Roman times.

Today, granite menhirs still retain some mystery as to their meaning.

The visit follows a route through the heart of wild olive trees, oaks and the “filetta” (fern) along a rural landscape, where you first discover the impressive “Filitosa V”, who seems to stand guard, armed with his sword and dagger.

Further on, you discover Filitosa VI, armed with his sword and whose severe look is disturbingly realistic. Then you arrive at the six statues on either side of the perimeter wall. These are all original and look like an army of guards protecting the entrance. When you go down to the fields (a horse is often there), another mound appears. Five additional statues are arranged around it, adorned by olive trees.

For evident conservation reasons, the Filitosa V and Filitosa VI menhirs are identical reproductions. The originals will be exhibited in the museum, which is scheduled to open in 2020.

The Filitosa site also hosts a “Village of craftspeople”. They have several stands where they display their work in metal, wood, stone and ceramics. They invite you to discover their creations and are present to passionately introduce you to their activity.

Filitosa's online shop offers you high-quality jewellery, tools and cutlery that are faithfully reproduced. Order directly online!

The prehistoric site of Filitosa is opening a 350 m² museum in 2020 at the end of the route. This beautiful stone structure is perfectly integrated with the vegetation and is designed on two levels. It is intended to be a museographic space at the heart of its environment: it is also a space for observing the site.

On 8 March we will celebrate the Heritage Days. From 10:30, take a leap into discovering craft introduction activities, such as casting a sword, demoulding ceramics and tasting Neolithic dishes.