Misincu 2019

« Le Pays bastiais
est à lui seul le miroir de la Corse »
A CITY OF ART AND HISTORY
| t o u r i s m e |
BASTIA, THE GATEWAY TO THE ISLAND OF BEAUTY,
OPENS ON TO A HINTERLAND WHICH COMBINES ALL
OF CORSICA’S ANCESTRAL AND HISTORICAL
PARTICULARITIES.
On the crossroads of three micro-regions - Cap Corse, Nebbiu and
Conca d’Oro - the Bastia Country is the perfect blend of sea and
mountain. Its territory reflects both the deeply rooted maritime
traditions and its omnipresent Genoese past. From its Americans’
houses to the marines of Cap Corse and the picturesque hustle and
bustle of the old quarters of Bastia, from its white sand beaches to its
hillside villages, it reflects every aspect of the entire island.
Throughout its narrow streets, Bastia is steeped in historical treasures.
In recognition of this unique Corsican heritage, the town was
awarded the label “City of Art and History” in 1999. For five centuries
it was the capital of the island up until the Genoese left in 1768, and
today Bastia holds the role of chief town of Haute-Corse and houses the
Préfecture.
Among the remarkable monuments: the 14th century Palais des
Gouverneurs overlooks the bay of the Vieux-Port. Built by Lionello
Lomellini, the Genoese governor and founder of the town, it was the
centre of Genoese administration when Bastia was the capital. Around
the “Bastiglia” (fortress), from which the town takes its name, a
labyrinthian area was built, which is the “town within the town”.
Bastia is also home to many religious buildings including the largest
and most emblematic church in Corsica, Saint-Jean-Baptiste, with its
two campanile, which tower above the place du Marché.
Another favourite site is the 19th century Place Saint-Nicolas, which
is the longest esplanade in Europe, measuring 300 metres. On the
square is a statue of Napoleon, a bandstand and a memorial for those
lost in the war. A wonderful place for strolling, and paradise for
children.