Cargèse

Cargèse is a coastal settlement in Corsica situated on a headland between two gulfs. The village is defined by twin churches overlooking the sea, defensive towers perched on the coast, and several beaches fringing the shoreline.

The settlement was founded in 1774 when Greek families from the Peloponnese fled Ottoman rule and found refuge here under French protection. The coastal towers were built in earlier centuries to guard against pirates who threatened Mediterranean shores.

The place carries the heritage of its Greek founders in the architecture and names visible throughout. The two churches across from each other represent a religious coexistence that still shapes community life today.

The place is best explored on foot, and the main points like the churches and harbor are easy to see in a single day. The beaches are accessible by short walks, and parking is readily available near the center.

The Church of Saint Spiridon follows Orthodox tradition, while the neighboring Catholic church preserves Latin practices, a rare side-by-side arrangement in Western Europe. This religious setup emerged from the founders' unique story and shows how two faith traditions coexist peacefully.

Location: canton of Deux-Sevi

Location: Corse-du-Sud

Location: arrondissement of Ajaccio

Elevation above the sea: 190 m

Shares border with: Piana, Marignana, Vico

Address: 20130 Cargèse, France

Phone: +33495264101

Email: mairie@cargese.corsica

Website: https://cargese.corsica

GPS coordinates: 42.13528,8.59472

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:12