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Monument · Bonifácio, Córsega
Escalier du Roi d'Aragon
A staircase of 189 steps carved into the limestone cliff, descending from the upper town down to near the sea.
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 Escalier du Roi d'Aragon
The Escalier du Roi d'Aragon is a staircase carved into the limestone cliff of Bonifácio, south of the upper town. It has 189 irregular steps, inclined at about 45 degrees, and ends on a horizontal path a few meters above the sea.
Legend says the soldiers of King Afonso V de Aragão dug the stair in a single night during the siege of Bonifácio in 1420, which lasted almost five months and failed to capture the town. In fact, the stair was made over time by Franciscan friars to reach a freshwater spring in a cave at the foot of the cliff.
On the descent, the view opens to the sea, the cliffs and Sardenha. Below, the path continues cut into the rock, beside the turquoise water. The cave with the old spring is not open to the public.
The site is classified as a historic monument. The visit requires good physical condition, closed footwear and respect for safety rules; a helmet is loaned at the entrance. Children who climb the 189 steps receive a diploma.
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 45 minutes and an hour to descend, walk along below and climb back up.
Best time
Right at opening, when the staircase is in the shade and has a shorter queue. The site operates from February to mid-November; check before you go.
How to get there
The entrance is on the esplanade of the Escalier, inside the upper town, a few minutes' walk from the Porte de Gênes.
Tip
Go in sneakers or closed, flat shoes: flip-flops, sandals and heels are not accepted. Tickets are sold on site and at the tourist office.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Escalier du Roi d'Aragon
How many steps does the Escalier du Roi d'Aragon have?
There are 189 uneven steps, with an incline of about 45 degrees. The climb back up requires stamina.
Was the staircase really carved out in one night?
No. That's the legend from the siege of 1420. The staircase was made over a long time by Franciscan friars to reach a freshwater spring.
Can you descend the Escalier du Roi d'Aragon in flip-flops?
No. It's only allowed to descend with closed, flat-soled shoes. A helmet is loaned at the entrance.