Travel to the heart of history Corsica: 8 unmissable cities of art +Added to my favoriteItem already present New

1 - a historic city in the heart of corsica : Bastia

The first city not to be missed is Bastia. It is home to several of the island's most iconic sites of interest. Starting with the Citadel, the city's historic center, which dates back to the Genoese presence in Corsica. In terms of religious monuments, the church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste stands out, with its majestic façade and two bell towers overlooking the old port, not forgetting the Oratoire de l'Immaculée-Conception , famous for its sumptuous painted ceilings, and the Chapelle de la Scala Santa.

2 - Calvi : baroque history and natural beauty

Succombez au charme de Calvi avec la vue sur toute sa baie

Discover Calvi! A city full of historical treasures. Among them, the cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture, whose interior frescoes are absolutely magnificent. Also worth seeing is the Tour de Sel, a former defensive bastion, reminiscent of naval battles and vigilance against pirate invasions. On the outskirts of the city, perched on the hill, is the chapel of Notre-Dame de la Serra , famous for the impressive vaults of its nave and choir. In front of it, you can enjoy an absolutely magical view of Calvi and its bay. The Revellata lighthouse, lit for the first time in 1844, is also worth a visit during your stay.

3 - the monuments and breathtaking views of Île-Rousse

In Haute-Corse, Île-Rousse also contains jewels of the island's cultural heritage. In the heart of the city, the church of the Immaculate Conception charms with its baroque façade and delicate ornaments. During your exploration, take the time to contemplate the Tour de Scalo , which once served as a prison and gunpowder warehouse, as well as the Phare de la Pietra, on the island of the same name, which offers a spectacular panorama of the sea and the surrounding coast. Among the treasures nearby, the convent of Saint-Dominique, located inland in Corbara, captivates with its simple architecture and breathtaking view of the valley.

4 - Corte : le berceau de l’histoire corse

Découvrez la citadelle de la ville de Corte en Corse

Less touristy but just as fascinating, Corte remains a fundamental place in Corsican history. It was here that Pascal Paoli proclaimed the independence of Corsica in 1755, and that the city was chosen as the capital. In the center of the Paoline city, discover the citadel, once a strategic stronghold nicknamed the eagle's nest. Its special feature? It is the only citadel on the island built inland. It houses the Musée de la Corse , which presents a variety of collections, including archaeological objects, traditional costumes, ancient tools and documents relating to the history of the island.

5 - Ajaccio : la ville impériale

Capitale de la Corse, cette ville est célèbre pour être baignée par les eaux du golfe et être le lieu de naissance de Napoléon Bonaparte. Si vous vous y trouvez un jeudi pendant les mois d’été, il vous faut assister à la relève de la Garde Impériale sur la Place Foch. Vous pourrez visiter la Maison Bonaparte, chargée de souvenirs de l’Empire, ainsi que le Palais Fesch - Musée des Beaux-Arts, réputé pour sa riche collection de peintures italiennes et ses expositions mettant en lumière l’histoire artistique de la région. La plus grande ville du département abrite en outre la superbe église Saint-Roch du 19e, caractérisée par une architecture néoclassique typique.

6 - the mediterranean charm and historic heritage de Cargèse

En randonnant vous pouvez découvrir la Tour génoise d’Omigna

Nestled between the sea and the mountains, Cargèse, one of Corsica's other historic towns, will charm you with its steep streets and historical treasures. You will discover the churches of Saint-Spyridon and the Assumption, nicknamed the “Greek” and the “Latin” churches respectively, testifying to their respective multicultural pasts. A walk to the Genoese Tower of Omigna also offers breathtaking views. Not far from Cargèse, Piana, ranked among the “Most Beautiful Villages of France”, is also worth a visit for anyone exploring the island.

7 - Bonifacio : the medieval splendors of the southernmost city

Bonifacio, the southernmost city in France, is a must for anyone exploring Corsican history. Don't miss its Bastion de l'Étendard, the most imposing on the island, built in the 13th century to protect the city from invasions, and which bears witness to the clashes between the Genoese and the Aragonese. In the very heart of the city, the church of Sainte-Marie-Majeure bears witness to its rich medieval past. You must dare to climb the King of Aragon staircase , carved into the limestone cliff, a challenge that will reward your efforts with an extraordinary view.

8 - “the most corsican of corsican towns” : Sartène

Vue du village de Sartène, qualifié comme la ville Corse par excellence

The last stop in the south of the island is Sartène, often described as “the most Corsican of Corsican towns” or “the Corsican town par excellence”, a title that is not without reason. The first attraction is the ramparts of the citadel, a testament to its tumultuous past, inviting you to delve into the island's history. Then, stroll through the Place de la Libération, discover the Sainte-Marie church and the secrets of the medieval Petraghju district, a veritable maze of cobbled streets. Finally, don't miss the route of the menhirs in the surrounding area , dotted with mysterious prehistoric remains, for a timeless exploration.