The first building in Bastia’s citadel was a keep, built in the late 14th century at the behest of the Genoese governor Leonello Lomelline. This historic beginning gives the city a distinctive landmark. Bastia’s sights range from churches with clear historical dates to waterside walks and green spaces. This lets you choose different focuses for your trip.
Discover Churches and History
The Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste, the largest church in Corsica, was built between 1636 and 1666. It houses a swallow’s nest organ loft dated 1742, adorned with three paintings depicting scenes from the life of Saint John the Baptist. The construction period and furnishings offer two historical reference points in one place.
The Cathedral of Sainte-Marie was built earlier, between 1604 and 1619, and dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. Its construction therefore predates that of Saint-Jean-Baptiste. You can find another detail of sacred architecture at the Oratory of the Immaculate Conception on Bastia’s Rue Napoléon: its forecourt features a pebble mosaic. These different dates and details give those interested in churches several specific points of interest as they explore Bastia.
Old Port, Gardens and Sea Views
The Old Port lies on a bay, around which old buildings in the Tuscan style are arranged like an amphitheater. The waterfront promenade invites you to stroll year-round among cafés, yachts and colorful fishing boats. Here, you can experience the harbor and its surroundings with a walk along the water.
The gardens of the Musée de Bastia also overlook the Old Port, offering views of the islands of the Tuscan Archipelago. The Jardin Romieu towers above Bastia’s quays. Its staircase winds beneath trees, past vases on pedestals, statues and a fountain, and offers sea views. Each garden offers its own perspective on the surroundings of Bastia.
Paths and Open Spaces Around the City
Aldilonda is a 450-meter-long pedestrian and cycle path along the sea, following the fortress walls of the citadel. It connects the north and south of Bastia. This makes it a clearly defined option for getting around on foot or by bike. The Mantinum open-air theater offers more than 600 seats and 2,000 standing places; its 16 rows of seats face the Old Port. The Mantinum project also includes an elevator intended to connect the Old Port with the citadel.
If you would like to spend time in a green space, U Forte Ă A Croce offers a different kind of experience: this four-hectare urban park lies in the heights of Bastia and is used for relaxation, walking and leisure activities. The U Guadellu path is accessible to everyone and lined with fruit trees. Pergolas, play areas and fountains are located along the path. When planning, you can choose between a route by the sea and different options in green spaces.
Plan Hotels and Your Stay in Bastia
When looking for hotels in Bastia, it helps to first decide what you want to focus on during your stay: churches and the citadel, strolls around the Old Port and by the sea, or time in the city’s green spaces. The places described offer a range of themes, from architectural history to waterside walks and parks. You can tailor your accommodation search to your own interests and the way you plan to spend your days.
Discover More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Luri, Palasca, Morosaglia, Mazzola, Santa-Reparata-Di-Balagna, Asco, Bustanico, Saint-Florent.
Return to the main travel overview: Haute-Corse.
