Ajaccio, Corsica, France

Ajaccio, Corsica, France

Ajaccio, Corsica France

Ajaccio is the capital of the French Mediterranean island of Corsica. The city is located on the west coast of the island. It is famous for being the place where the Emperor Napoleon was born and it is impossible to escape his presence. Streets, squares, buildings, restaurants and more are named after him all over the city. And it is no surprise since Napoleon didn’t forget his birthplace: he gifted it with its first sewer system, planted some eucalyptus trees to drain the marshy areas, and made Ajaccio the capital of Corsica. Ajaccio’s centre is not that big and is easily walkable. The main shopping area is the rue du Cardinal Fesch and there is also a museum displaying the painting collection amassed by Cardinal Joseph Fesch. Next to the museum is the Imperial Chapel, built around 1860 that holds the tombs not only of Fesch but also of Napoleons parents. At the end of the street you come into the Place Foch, home to the town hall. Place Foch is in the centre of the old town and was once the site of the town’s medieval gate. This lovely square is lined with cafes and restaurants and a statue of Napoleon as first consul standing over the Four Lions Fountain. After crossing Place Foch, we will find the cathedral and Napoleons birthplace, now a museum. The Cathedral of La Madonuccia is dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin and was built at the end of the 16th century. The main alter was given to the city by Elisa Baciocchi, Napoleon's sister, who was baptized there in 1771. Ajaccio is a small place, but big-hearted and full of authenticity. A place where nature is never distant and where, if you slow down and soak in the Mediterranean laid-back atmosphere, you just might find yourself enchanted.
Wikipedia
Recommended airport
Campo Dell Oro (AJA)
Points of interest
  • Place de Gaulle
  • Place Foch
  • Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption
Nearby destinations
  • Propriano, Corsica a 31.16 km
  • Corsica a 33.54 km
  • Piana a 36.06 km
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