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Cathedral · Ajaccio, Córsega
Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption d'Ajaccio
Cathedral from the late 16th century, in the historic center, where Napoleon was baptized in 1771.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption d'Ajaccio
The Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption, also called Santa Maria Assunta, stands in the Genoese quarter of the city, near the sea. The main work was finished in 1593. It is the cathedral of the diocese of Ajaccio and has been listed as a historic monument since 1906.
Napoleon was baptized here on 21 June 1771, almost two years after his birth. The baptismal font remains inside. The church is also dedicated to Saint Euphrasius, linked to the city's first cathedral, and to Saint Francis Xavier.
From the outside the façade is simple, in light tones. Inside there are marble altars and paintings, including a canvas by Eugène Delacroix, the Virgin of the Sacred Heart, donated to the town in 1827 and displayed behind the high altar.
The cathedral is a few steps from the Maison Bonaparte and the beach Saint-François, on the route between the historic center and the citadel. It is a functioning church: please respect the silence and the mass times.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Between 20 and 30 minutes.
Best time
In the morning, together with a visit to the Maison Bonaparte. Avoid mass times, especially on Sundays.
How to get there
It is on rue Forcioli-Conti, in the historic center, about a five-minute walk from the Maison Bonaparte and Place Foch.
Tip
Look for the baptismal font where Napoleon was baptized and the Delacroix painting. Covered shoulders are welcome.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption d'Ajaccio
Was Napoleon baptized in the cathedral of Ajaccio?
Yes, on 21 June 1771. The baptismal font from the ceremony is inside the cathedral.
Is there an entrance fee for the cathedral?
There is no entrance fee, as it is a working church. Check the opening times before you go, because visits are suspended during services.
When was the cathedral of Ajaccio built?
The main construction was completed in 1593, when Ajaccio was a Genoese fortified town.