Corte

Corti, 7737 PopulationInsee Corte  299 to 2626 meters 14927 hectares

To discover

Corte is a city that never empties; this major tourist destination, rich in history and boasting a unique natural heritage, attracts numerous visitors in the summer, gradually replaced in winter by students enrolled at the University of Corsica Pasquale Paoli.

Corte, at the Geographical and Historical Center of the Island

Located in the heart of the island, the town of Corte naturally established itself as a strategic crossroads. It is traversed by the Territorial Road 20, connecting the south with Ajaccio (80 km, 1h30 by car) and the north with Bastia (70 km, 1h15 by car). Corte also provides access to the eastern plain via Aleria in 45 minutes and to Balagne by taking the T30 at Ponte Leccia.

Due to its central location and its setting nestled within the mountains, the town was a prime military site. The Citadel of Corte, perched on a rocky peak, was built in the 15th century by the Genoese to control the island's interior and defend the region from foreign incursions.

Even before the Paolina era, Corte was the stronghold of local lords and Genoese governors, who established garrisons there to assert their authority over the island's center.

Pasquale Paoli Makes Corte the Capital of Corsica

University Library

In 1755, Pasquale Paoli - Babbu di a Nazione - led the Corsican uprising against Genoese rule and established an independent government. He strategically chose Corte as the capital due to its military and political advantages, making it a nearly impregnable stronghold against invaders.

In Corte, Paoli laid the foundations of a modern Corsican state, implementing a structured administrative system and strengthening the military organization. The town became an intellectual and political hub, hosting the institutions of the young Corsican nation and symbolizing the island’s aspirations for independence.

In 1765, he founded the University of Corsica, which remains a center of learning and education for Corsican elites. His ambition was to provide Corsica with an academic structure capable of shaping future generations of enlightened citizens, guardians of the island’s independence and cultural heritage.

Despite Paoli’s government falling in 1769 and Corsica’s annexation by France, Corte has retained its prestige, remaining a stronghold of Corsican identity and an essential site of the island’s national memory.

Cultural Heritage

Saint-Theophilus Chapel

Saint-Théophile Chapel

Overlooking Corte, the Saint-Theophilus Chapel is a modest yet historically significant sanctuary. It is dedicated to Theophilus of Corte (1676-1740), a Franciscan friar born in the city and canonized in 1930. The chapel stands as a tribute to this man of faith, who dedicated his life to spirituality and reforming his order.

Theophilus of Corte was known for his discipline and commitment within the Franciscan Order, playing a key role in revitalizing the Recollect branch. His influence extended beyond Corsica, and he was recognized for his teachings and asceticism.

Today, the chapel remains a place of reflection, offering a stunning view of the city and surrounding mountains. Every year, devotees gather here to honor the patron saint of Corte.

Church of the Annunciation

Church of the Annunciation

The Church of the Annunciation, located in the heart of Corte, is one of the city’s main religious buildings. Built in the 15th century, it underwent significant renovations over the centuries, particularly in the 18th century, giving it its current appearance.

Its architecture combines simplicity and elegance, characteristic of Corsican churches, with a modest façade and an imposing bell tower dominating the city. Inside, visitors can admire several remarkable artworks, including a marble high altar and paintings depicting biblical scenes.

Listed as a historic monument in 1976, the church remains an active place of worship and a central element of Corte’s heritage. It regularly hosts religious ceremonies and is a must-see for visitors interested in the history and architecture of the city.

Holy Cross Chapel

Sainte-Croix Chapel

The Holy Cross Chapel was built in the 17th century and historically served as the seat of the Holy Cross Brotherhood, one of Corsica’s traditional confraternities, which played a major role in religious celebrations and funeral rites. The chapel’s interior houses remarkable decorative elements, including a retable and ancient paintings.

Although lesser-known among visitors, the Holy Cross Chapel is well worth a visit for those seeking to explore Corte’s religious heritage in a more intimate setting.

Through the Streets of the Paolina City

Corte’s panoramic view, its alleyways, and fountains.

Corte, Between Lakes and Rivers

Melo and Capitello Lakes

Melu and Capitello Lakes

Located in the heart of the Rotondo Massif, the Melo and Capitello Lakes are among Corsica’s natural gems, part of a protected area. To reach these glacial lakes, one must hike through the upper Restonica Valley, surrounded by rugged alpine landscapes and crystal-clear waters.

The Melo Lake, situated at 1,711 meters altitude, is the first to be reached via a relatively accessible hike, while the Capitello Lake, at 1,930 meters, requires a more challenging ascent, rewarded with breathtaking views of its deep, intensely reflective waters.

Following the 2023 flood, the road leading to the Grotelle shepherds' huts was washed away, making access by car impossible. A shuttle service has since been introduced to transport hikers to the trailhead.

Read the detailed article on the hike to Melo and Capitello Lakes

Restonica River

Restonica River

The Restonica River winds through one of Corsica’s most stunning valleys. Originating from Melo Lake, it cascades over 18 km of granite slopes, forming a series of natural pools with clear, pristine waters, scattered with boulders and bordered by a Laricio pine forest.

A popular summer retreat, the river is also a haven for hiking enthusiasts, with trails running alongside it, leading to the valley’s iconic landscapes and the Melo and Capitello Lakes.

Designated a Grand Site of France, the Restonica Valley benefits from special conservation measures. Vehicle access is restricted during the summer season to protect this unique environment.

Note that in November 2023, storms Ciarán and Domingos caused significant damage to the Restonica Valley. The Tragone Bridge was destroyed, making vehicle access to the Grotelle shepherds' huts impossible.

Photos of the Restonica Valley

Tavignanu River

Tavignanu River

The Tavignanu Gorges offer spectacular landscapes. Separated by a ridgeline featuring Punta di Castelli, the Tavignanu Valley (to the north) and the Restonica Valley (to the south) form Corte’s two green lungs.

Unlike the Restonica, the Tavignanu Valley is accessible only on foot. The trail begins just before Corte’s citadel, following an old mule path through untouched and invigorating nature. The first pools are reachable within a fifteen-minute walk, with the option to continue upstream.

One of the Tavignanu’s hidden treasures is the "Black Lake" (Lavu Niellu), whose rocky outcrops allow for jumps over ten meters high, requiring extreme caution due to frequent accidents.

Restonica Trail of Corte - UTC 2025

With its rugged valleys and strategic location, Corte has gained international recognition in the trail running world thanks to its courses, including the famous UTC (Ultra Trail di Corsica), part of the UTMB World Series Events.

With 110 km of mountain running and 7200 meters of elevation gain, the UTC is recognized as one of the most challenging and technical Ultra Trails in the world. Each year, the event attracts thousands of runners from around the globe.

The 2025 edition will take place, as every year since 2008, in July. Specifically, on Thursday, July 3, 2025, at 11:00 PM, runners will set off for the 2025 edition.

Other races and a charity walk are also scheduled with different courses:

• Ultra-Trail di Corsica 110km 7200m D+ Thursday, July 3 at 11:00 PM (solo + relay)
• Giru di Tumbone 17km 650m D+ Friday, July 4 at 6:00 PM
• Restonica Trail 69km 4000m D+ Saturday, July 5 at 4:30 AM
• Tavignanu Trail 33km 2500m D+ Saturday, July 5 at 6:30 AM
• Andata, 6km charity walk Saturday, July 5 at 8:30 AM

For more information and registration, visit the official website: Restonica Trail.