BASTIA, CORSICA

Our tour begins with a short journey of approximately 20 minutes on the mini road train from St Nicolas Square to the old port. During our journey, our guide will help us to discover the old town of Bastia and the proud Citadel, the Cathedral Ste Marie, the Governor’s Palace and the old port.

Our tour begins with a short journey of approximately 20 minutes on the mini road train from St Nicolas Square to the old port. During our journey, our guide will help us to discover the old town of Bastia and the proud Citadel, the Cathedral Ste Marie, the Governor’s Palace and the old port. Under the Genoese administration, Bastia was the capital of the whole island, and was very rich thanks to its numerous vines, olives and chestnut tree plantations. At first glance, the charm of the town may not appear to us – but once we are walking through the narrow streets we will discover many signs of a rich and interesting past. We shall visit the Square of St Nicolas – the meeting point of the island’s population; the Terra Vecchia, of baroque style; the Terra Nova; and the very charming old port with its colourful fishing boats. The Terra Vecchia – the old quarter, founded in 1380 – stretches from St Nicolas Place to the old port, through irregular paved streets, passing little chapels dedicated to saints in baroque style such as the Oratoire St Roch, or the ‘flamboyant’ Oratoire de l’Immaculee. On the other side of the port we will find the historic quarter of Terra Nova, which is now the town’s trendiest area, constituted by the Citadel, with the Square of Du Donjon and the impressive 14th century Palais des Governeurs (external views only). The return journey to our ship will be via the mini road train. Please note that this tour involves approximately 1 hour of walking over uneven and hilly ground; it is therefore unsuitable for passengers with limited mobility or wheelchair passengers. The order of visits may be reversed to avoid congestion and delays. This tour is for those of us who would appreciate the services of an English-speaking guide. Internal visits to the Oratoires are not part of the organised tour, however, if there are no services taking place you may enter; suitable clothing should be worn. Passengers wishing to use the toilet facilities in a bar/restaurant etc will be expected to purchase a drink.