San-Martino-di-Lota, Mediterranean commune in Haute-Corse, France
San-Martino-di-Lota is a commune in Corsica that spreads across terraced slopes at roughly 260 meters elevation, with views between the Mediterranean Sea and forest-covered mountains. The settlement sits on steep terrain dotted with olive groves and scrubland vegetation, connecting coastal life with highland conditions.
The parish church of Saint Martin was built in the 17th century and displays classical architectural features of the period. It houses an altarpiece created by monks from the Mola convent, showing the artistic links the village had with nearby religious communities.
Residents prepare palm leaf decorations in the days leading up to Palm Sunday, keeping alive a tradition that shapes the village's religious calendar each spring. This hands-on craft brings the community together around a meaningful local custom.
The place is best explored on foot, as the steep paths between buildings are narrow and winding. Visitors should wear proper shoes and keep in mind that the elevation means it can be cooler and windier up here than in the coastal area below.
A former burial ground called U sacrariu served as the village cemetery until 1812, with deceased residents buried within the church walls. This practice was typical for small mountain villages and reflects how closely the church and community life were connected.
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