Rocher des Gozzi, Mountain summit near Afa, Corsica, France
The Rocher des Gozzi is a rocky summit in the commune of Afa, near Ajaccio in Corsica, recognizable by its reddish cliff face that stands out clearly against the surrounding maquis-covered hills. From the top, the view opens onto the Gravona valley, the Gulf of Ajaccio, and the coastline stretching toward the sea.
On top of the Rocher des Gozzi, a few stone wall foundations remain from a medieval fortress built by the counts of Cinarca, a powerful Corsican family who controlled these hills from the 9th to the 15th century. Genoa eventually had the fortress destroyed as part of its effort to take control of the region, leaving only scattered remnants.
The Rocher des Gozzi is visible from several nearby villages, including Afa, Appietto, and Alata, and its silhouette has long served as a reference point in the local landscape. Walkers on the trail can also notice the small chapel of San Chirgu near the starting point, which marks the traditional entrance to the hill.
The starting point for the walk is near the chapel of San Chirgu, outside Appietto, where parking is available. The path is not marked with signs but is easy to follow, though the final stretch near the top is steeper, so sturdy footwear and enough water are a good idea.
Just beside the Rocher des Gozzi stands the Punta Pastinaca, a slightly higher point that offers a full 360-degree view with no obstructions on any side. The path leading there follows an old dry-stone wall, a simple but well-kept piece of traditional Corsican construction.
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