Overlooking the Mediterranean from its stony promontory, Calvi’s citadel is one of the historic jewels not to be missed. Located just 2.5 km from the Calvi campsite, the citadel is one of the Corsican city’s must-see landmarks.
The Genoese citadel of Calvi
Between the fortified walls of Calvi’s citadel were written some of the pages of the region’s, and even the country’s, history. Proof of its particular importance, the building is listed as a historic monument. It is one of the town’s most popular attractions. Families, couples or groups of friends, with their audioguides rented from the local tourist office, wander the picturesque cobbled streets of the fortified town to better appreciate its ramparts and enjoy a breathtaking view of the Grande Bleue. The site can also be explored as a treasure hunt for children.
Civitas Calvi Semper Fidelis
The tour begins with the porch above which is inscribed “Civitas Calvi Semper Fidelis”: Calvi, the city of the faithful. The words thus engraved at the citadel’s entrance mark the Genoese governor’s gratitude for the population’s loyalty to the powerful Republic of Genoa for five centuries.
The jewels of Calvi’s religious heritage
Calvi is particularly rich insacred art. Among the religious buildings well worth a visit is the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, whose origins date back to the 13ᵉ century, and which captivates as much for its architectural qualities as for its many exceptional works. Many visitors are also enchanted by the Oratoire Saint-Antoine, a 15ᵉ century building where polyphonic singing concerts are held.
Other monuments in Calvi
While visitors fall in love with Calvi’s scenic beauty first and foremost, they also take time to explore the main historical sites of this charming destination. Among the great buildings not to be missed are the former Palais des Gouverneurs, whose origins date back to 1496, but also the former Palais des Évêques de Sagone, an architectural masterpiece built in the 16ᵉ century now converted into a piano bar. The house where Christopher Columbus was born also attracts the interest of many visitors. It features an inscription indicating that the explorer was born in 1441, when the city was under Genoese rule. Less well known, but interesting, is the house of Lorenzo Giubbega, godfather of Napoleon Bonaparte. It’s also worth discovering some of the local traditional skills. For example, visitors can visit L’Attellu, where a woodturner explains his techniques and his passion for the craft. More broadly, art lovers can take advantage of the June-September period to admire pop art paintings and sculptures by Corsican artists. Lovers of live shows and music are not to be outdone. The U svelgiu Calvese association offers themed days and, above all, plays at La Poudrière. The Théâtre de Verdure also delights locals and visitors alike. The open-air stage offers the perfect setting for concerts at the foot of the Calvese citadel ramparts. The experience is simply unique.
