The medieval town of Bonifacio is situated on the south coast of the island of Corsica. Perching atop weather-beaten limestone cliffs that look out to sea, Bonifacio’s vista should not be missed. Beneath the historic, charming hub of the town, home to ancient houses and a citadel, the natural harbour hosts a thriving port. Due to its close proximity to the island of Sardinia, the inhabitants of Bonifacio also have their own Italian dialect.
Bonifacio’s position atop these impressive cliffs allows tourists and residents alike to take in Corsica’s beautiful coastline, the Tyrrhenian Sea and Sardinia. However, these views are not its only selling points; Bonifacio has much more to offer, as experienced deckhand and traveller Oliver Mills-Nanyn has discovered.
A Town With Many Charms
Within the town’s centre, a 9th century citadel complete with fortified walls encloses the Vielle Ville (the old town). With much care taken to protect the old town over the years, the area is well worth a visit with its lively streets and alleyways. Craft shops and boutiques rub shoulders with cafes and restaurants, all interspersed with elegant churches and palazzi.
The port itself is a hub of activity, home to numerous cafes and restaurants and even a small aquarium. With the tourist train available to transport visitors from the port to the old town and back again, tourists can take in all that Bonaficio has to offer.
The embedded PDF examines Corsica’s landscape and economy.
Things to Do in Bonaficio
The views in Bonaficio are second to none and can be best appreciated on the water. Taking a boat trip from the harbour allows explorers to view the magnificent limestone cliffs, the caves nestled within them and concealed coves. From the boats on the water, the panorama of the town perched on the cliffs is a sight not to be missed.
From the citadel in the old town, the King of Aragon stairway extends all the way down the cliffs to the coast. It is alleged that the stairway was crafted over the course of one night by King Aragon’s soldiers. Comprising 187 steps carved out of the cliffs, the stairway offers sweeping views out over the sea.
Exploring the medieval old town with its cobbled streets is a wonderful way to while away an afternoon; complete with stone archways and quaint squares, the old town takes visitors back in time. Alongside the 13th century Church of Saint-Dominique and the 12th century Church of Sainte-Marie-Majeure, tourists can also take advantage of the numerous shops and restaurants on offer.
