World Wings: Ajaccio, Corsica

Ajaccio, Corsica France

Ajaccio is the capital of the French Mediterranean island of Corsica, located on the island’s west coast. It is famous as the birthplace of Emperor Napoleon, and his presence is felt everywhere: streets, squares, buildings, restaurants, and more are named after him throughout the city. Napoleon, in turn, left his mark on Ajaccio by gifting it its first sewer system, planting eucalyptus trees to drain marshy areas, and making Ajaccio the capital of Corsica. Ajaccio’s center is compact and easy to explore on foot. The main shopping street is Rue du Cardinal Fesch, which also hosts a museum displaying the painting collection amassed by Cardinal Joseph Fesch. Next to the museum is the Imperial Chapel, built around 1860, which holds the tombs of Fesch as well as Napoleon’s parents. At the end of the street you reach Place Foch, home to the town hall. Located in the heart of the old town and once the site of the medieval gate, this charming square is lined with cafés and restaurants and features a statue of Napoleon as First Consul standing above the Four Lions Fountain. Beyond Place Foch you’ll find the cathedral and Napoleon’s birthplace, now a museum. The Cathedral of La Madonuccia, dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin, was built at the end of the 16th century. Its main altar was gifted to the city by Elisa Baciocchi, Napoleon’s sister, who was baptized there in 1771. Ajaccio is a small city with a big heart and a strong sense of authenticity. Nature is never far away, and if you slow down and soak in the relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere, you may well find yourself enchanted.

Recommended airport

Campo Dell Oro (AJA)

Points of interest

Nearby destinations

Ajaccio, Corsica, France

Ajaccio, Corsica France