Aleria

At the heart of Corsica’s fascinating history, the town of Aleria is located in the north-west of the island and is custodian of some of the island’s most precious architectural and natural treasures. Located between the towns of Bastia and Porto Vecchio, Aleria is the perfect place to truly appreciate the rich heritage and culture of Corsica.

Surrounded by one of the most beautiful environments on the island, Aleria is bordered by striking beaches and verdant hills, both of which immerse the town in an atmosphere of calmness and relaxation. The breathtaking views and scenic countryside ensure that visitors to Aleria see the best the island and the Mediterranean Sea have to offer, as well as the magnificent architecture of the town itself.

A beautiful blend of nature, history and art, Aleria hides grand examples of the island’s local religious and cultural past. This legacy has, today, been lovingly maintained through the Church of St. Marcello; a 16th century fort; and the Museum of Jerome Carcopino, dedicated to the man who fought for the protection of archaeological ruins in the territory such as the incredibly ancient necropolises you can still visit today.

Historically, Aleria has always been an important centre for many battles and ancient civilizations. Today the area’s incredibly old roots are still preserved for locals and tourists through the buildings and monuments that are also beautiful symbols of Corsica’s proud traditions and culture. The town was first ruled by the Greeks who named it Alalia, but the territory then fell to Cero the Great who controlled Aleria until the arrival of the Etruscans and the Carthaginians. In the subsequent centuries the town became an important centre for the Roman Empire, before passing to the Republic of Genoa in the Middle Ages and finally to the French Kingdom in the 18th century.