San-Giovanni-Di-Moriani combines historic churches and chapels with botanical discoveries; near San Mamilianu, Boucle 4 offers a view across Corsica’s east coast. The trails have different themes: the Ghjassu botanicu explores plants, villages and birds; Boucle 4 leads to numerous chapels and a view across Corsica’s east coast.
Churches, Chapels and Early Traces
The complex comprising the parish church of San Giovanni and the confraternity chapel dates from the second half of the 17th century. The Chapel of San Mamilianu is a former medieval parish church building; as a Romanesque chapel, it dates from the 10th century. It is accessible on foot in the hills above the village.
The Chapel of Notre-Dame des Sept Douleurs in Casone may date from the first half of the 18th century; it was restored in the last quarter of the 20th century. The Forge di a catena, also known as the Forge de Saint Blaise, dates from the end of the 16th century or the beginning of the 17th century. A Neolithic site was discovered at the archaeological site of Castelli Vechju, in the municipality of San Ghjuvanni di Moriani.
These dates span a broad historical arc: the archaeological site points to the Neolithic period, while the buildings cover several later centuries. For Notre-Dame des Sept Douleurs, the possible date of construction and the much later restoration should be distinguished as two separate dates.
Botanical Trail and Boucle 4
The Ghjassu botanicu di San Ghjuvanni di Moriani begins at the parish church of San Giovanni. Fifty plants are labelled in French, Latin and Corsican. The trail passes through the typical villages of Fano and Poggio, with their rural Corsican architecture, and offers the chance to spot birds. It takes three hours, reaches a maximum elevation of 782 metres and has an elevation gain of 317 metres.
Boucle 4 is a 9.5-kilometre hiking route that explores San Ghjuvanni di Moriani and its numerous chapels. Near San Mamilianu, it offers a view across Corsica’s east coast, from the port of Taverna to the beginning of Cap Corse. The two routes differ in what defines them: the botanical trail takes three hours, while Boucle 4 is 9.5 kilometres long.
Forest and Wildlife
The forest between Bucatoghju and Pietrignani consists of yew and boxwood; golden eagles are common there. The botanical trail focuses on different things: its labelled plants and villages complement birdwatching with knowledge of plants and rural architecture. The two nature experiences therefore differ: the trail features plants, villages and birds, while the forest is known for its tree species and frequently occurring golden eagles.
Baked Goods and Local Produce
At L’Alta Spiga, baked goods take centre stage: breads, pastries and biscuits are made in a wood-fired oven using natural sourdough. This culinary aspect complements the architectural and nature themes with a specific approach to production. If you would like to include culinary topics alongside churches, chapels and trails, this bakery offers a distinct focus.
Discover more destinations: Asco, Pietra-di-Verde, Calvi, Ersa, Vescovato, Saint-Florent, Santa-Lucia-di-Mercurio, Valle-di-Rostino.
For the regional travel overview: Haute-Corse.
