Ajaccio walking tour
Ajaccio walking tour starts at Maison Bonaparte and goes through all main sights of the city. Depeding on your plans and visits to museums, the whole tour might take from 2 hour to the whole day (with breaks for a lunch in one of the restaurants). You do not need to use a public transport and can just walk along the streets framed with beautiful palm trees and enjoy the capital of Corsica.
Ajaccio walking tour on map:
Ajaccio walking tour
All the sights of Ajaccio can be seen in literally 1 hour. If you do not count the Greek chapel, which is located off to the side, then a walk around Ajaccio in the specified sequence will take 34 minutes and 2.6 km. If you include the Greek chapel, it will be 54 minutes and 4.2 km. Greek chapel is not very intresting, so you can eacily skip it.
Attractions along the route:
- Maison Bonaparte
- Cathedral Santa Maria Assunta
- Citadelle d’Ajaccio
- Place Foch
- Musée Fesch
- Église Saint-Roch
- Cours Napoléon
- Préfecture de Corse
- Église du Sacré Cœur
- Eglise Anglicane near Dance School Municipal
- Grotte Napoleon
- Chapelle Des Grecs
Description:
1 – Maison Bonaparte
The Maison Bonaparte, located at 8 Rue Saint-Charles, is the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte. This historic home has been transformed into a museum showcasing artifacts related to Napoleon’s early life, including personal memorabilia and period furnishings. It offers visitors a glimpse into the formative years of one of history’s most influential figures.
2 – Cathedral Santa Maria Assunta
The Cathedral Santa Maria Assunta, built between 1577 and 1593, is renowned for its Baroque-Mannerist architecture and its role in Napoleon Bonaparte’s life as the site of his baptism. The cathedral features elegant interiors and a serene atmosphere, making it a significant religious and historical landmark in Ajaccio.
3 – Citadelle d’Ajaccio
The Citadelle d’Ajaccio, a 16th-century fortress, dominates the skyline with its imposing structure and strategic location overlooking the harbor. Built to protect the city from naval attacks, the citadel offers panoramic views of Ajaccio and the Mediterranean Sea, and provides insight into the city’s military history. Closed for visitors.
4 – Place Foch
Place Foch is a vibrant central square in Ajaccio, known for its lively atmosphere and charming surroundings. The square is lined with cafes and shops, and features the statue of Napoleon Bonaparte, celebrating his role in the city’s history. It serves as a hub for both locals and visitors, offering a picturesque spot for relaxation and people-watching.
To the left of Rue Bonaparte, in a niche, is a statue of the Virgin of Mercy (Madonuccia), patroness of Ajaccio, whose feast day is celebrated on March 18.
Until the beginning of the 19th century, Place Foch, then known as Palmiers, was the end of the old town, beyond which the suburbs began (rue Fesch).
5 – Musée Fesch
Musée Fesch, housed in a neoclassical building, is renowned for its impressive collection of Italian Renaissance art. Established by Napoleon’s uncle, Cardinal Fesch, the museum boasts works by masters such as Botticelli and Raphael, making it a key cultural destination for art enthusiasts in Ajaccio. Tickets – 10 €.
6 – Église Saint-Roch
Église Saint-Roch, located near the city center, is a small but charming church known for its modest yet elegant Baroque interior. It serves as a peaceful retreat from the bustling streets of Ajaccio and offers a glimpse into the city’s religious heritage.
7 – Cours Napoléon
This central thoroughfare is known for its charming mix of shops, cafes, and restaurants, offering a bustling atmosphere and picturesque views of the city’s harbor. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists to stroll, enjoy the vibrant street life, and take in the historical ambiance of Ajaccio, which is deeply connected to Napoleon Bonaparte, whose birthplace is nearby.
8 – Préfecture de Corse
The Préfecture de Corse, an administrative building with striking architectural features, serves as the headquarters of the regional government. Its grand facade and historical significance highlight the importance of Ajaccio as a political center on the island of Corsica.
9 – Église du Sacré Cœur
Église du Sacré Cœur, also known as the Church of the Sacred Heart, is a notable religious site in Ajaccio characterized by its neo-Gothic architecture. The church’s distinctive design and tranquil interior make it a noteworthy stop for those interested in religious history and architectural beauty.
10 – Eglise Anglicane near Dance School Municipal
The church was built in 1869 on the initiative of Miss Campbell, since at that time up to a thousand British people came to the city. Construction was completed in 1878. Polychrome stones from different regions of the island were used for the construction.
The Dance School Municipal, located in a historic building, offers a range of dance classes and performances for all ages. This cultural institution plays a vital role in promoting the arts within the community and contributes to Ajaccio’s vibrant cultural scene.
11 – Grotte Napoleon
It is not an actual cave but rather a natural shelter formed by large granite boulders. According to local legend, the young Napoleon Bonaparte often retreated to this spot to read and contemplate his future. While the “cave” itself is relatively small and unassuming, it has become a significant historical site due to its association with the famous emperor. In 1938, a monumental ensemble was erected nearby to honor Napoleon. This impressive structure consists of a large stone promontory covered with inscriptions, topped by a small stepped pyramid that serves as a pedestal for a bronze statue of Napoleon. The statue is a replica of the one that once stood atop the Vendôme column in Paris.
12 – Chapelle Des Grecs
Chapelle Des Grecs, a small yet significant chapel, is known for its historical association with the Greek community in Ajaccio. It features a simple yet evocative design, reflecting the multicultural aspects of the city’s past and offering a unique perspective on its diverse heritage.
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