King of Aragon staircase
King of Aragon staircase, Historic staircase in Bonifacio, France
Description
The King of Aragon staircase is a structure with 187 steps cut directly into white limestone cliffs and descending toward the sea at a steep angle. The steps vary in width from 80 centimeters to 2 meters, with each step rising approximately 28 centimeters in height.
History
Franciscan monks built the staircase over an extended period to create access to water and shelter from the town above. The name comes from the 1420 siege by Alfonso V of Aragon, who attacked the city and left his mark on local memory.
Culture
The staircase links the upper town to a natural freshwater spring inside the Saint-Barthelemy cave, a connection that shaped daily life for residents over centuries. Visitors can still sense how this vital water source influenced the layout and use of the settlement above.
Practical
Wear flat closed shoes with good grip when descending, as the narrow steps can be slippery and require secure footing throughout the climb. The descent is physically demanding and not suitable for those with mobility difficulties.
Did you know?
From boats in the Strait of Bonifacio, the staircase appears as a thin dark diagonal line carved into the bright limestone cliff, creating a striking visual mark on the coastline. This feature makes it instantly recognizable from a distance and has become a landmark for sailors.
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