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Historic neighborhood · Bonifácio, Córsega
Haute-Ville de Bonifacio
Walled upper town on the cliff, fortified by the Genoese, with narrow streets, medieval churches and viewpoints over the sea and the harbor.
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 Haute-Ville de Bonifacio
The Haute-Ville, the upper town, sits on the tip of a limestone plateau that ends in cliffs about 60 meters above the sea. It was the first Genoese stronghold in Corsica, at the end of the 12th century: a fortified town inhabited by those who defended it. The name comes from Count Bonifacio of Lucca, who had a castle built there in 830.
The main entrance is the Porte de Gênes, with a drawbridge, reached via the Montée Rastello, the climb that starts from the harbor. Right beside it is the Bastion de l'Étendard, the largest bastion of the walls. Inside, the narrow lanes pass the churches of Sainte-Marie-Majeure and Saint-Dominique, the latter classified as a historic monument since 1862.
The tall houses press against the cliff edge, and from several points on the walls you can see the sea, the harbor and, on clear days, the coast of Sardinia. In the Place du Marché there is a viewpoint over the cliff.
The upper town is the starting point for the Escalier du Roi d'Aragon and the walk to the sea cemetery at the tip of the plateau.
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
Two to three hours on foot, not including the Escalier du Roi d'Aragon.
Best time
Early in the morning, before the groups and the heat, or late in the afternoon, when the low light illuminates the cliffs. In July and August the climb from the port fills up from mid-morning.
How to get there
On foot, from the port, via the Montée Rastello, an uphill walk of about 15 minutes. There's a tourist train in season and paid parking near the entrance.
Tip
Wear comfortable footwear: the alleys have uneven stone and steep sections. Bring water in summer.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Haute-Ville de Bonifacio
How to go up from the port to Bonifácio's upper town?
On foot via the Montée Rastello, about 15 minutes uphill. In season there is a tourist train that makes the route.
Can you see Sardenha from the upper town?
Yes, on clear days. Sardenha's coast lies on the other side of the strait, just over 10 km away.
Can you drive into the upper town?
Car access is very restricted and the alleys are narrow. Leave the car in the port or entrance parking lots and go up on foot.