Corte Old Town

Corte Old Town is a historic district in the heart of Corsica, perched 111 meters above the confluence of the Tavignano and Restonica rivers. From 1755 to 1769, Corte served as the capital of Corsica under Pasquale Paoli, and it remains a significant cultural and historical center. The town is dominated by the Citadel of Corte, the only inland citadel among the seven Corsican fortifications. This Genoese fortress features three levels of defense and was constructed in two distinct stages over 350 years.

Visitors can explore the Citadel and the Museum of Corsica, housed within the 19th-century Serrurier Barracks. The museum, opened in June 1997, displays the ethnographic collection of Father Louis Doazan, focusing on Corsican culture, customs, and history. Admission to the Citadel and the museum is included in the ticket price, which costs €5.50 for general entry. Reduced rates are available for seniors, students, groups, and young adults aged 10–25. An audio guide is available for an additional €2.00.

Opening hours vary by season. During the high season (May 1 to October 31), the site is open daily from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm. In the low season (November 1 to April 30), it is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. The site is closed on Sundays, Mondays, public holidays, and from December 31 to January 14. The Citadel offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, providing a profound insight into Corsica’s strategic military past and rich cultural heritage.