Citadel of Bastia, 14th-century fortification and governor palace in Bastia, France
The Citadel of Bastia is a 14th-century fortress with thick stone walls, defensive towers, and the Palace of Governors positioned on elevated ground overlooking the Mediterranean. The structure combines military and administrative functions within its perimeter walls and forms the historical core of the upper town.
The fortress was built during Genoese rule as a defensive structure and shaped the city for centuries. It suffered damage during World War II but was later restored to preserve this historical legacy.
The Palace of Governors served as the administrative seat of Genoese rule and remains a visual anchor in the old town. Visitors can sense how decisions made within these walls shaped the region's development for centuries.
The site sits in the upper town and is accessible on foot but involves steep paths and uneven ground. Visit during milder months when the terrain is less slippery and easier to navigate safely.
The courtyard once displayed remnants of a submarine that played a significant role in Corsican maritime history. This connection between the fortress and naval warfare history underscores the port's strategic importance.
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