Bonifacio

The town of Bonifacio is located in the south of Corsica and is home to surreal scenery, magnificent beaches and glorious views. Whilst small, Bonifacio is a destination which draws hundreds of tourists each year simply because of its almost unbelievable natural splendor and its perfect mix of brilliant blue coastline and lush, verdant countryside.

Also celebrated as a jewel of Corsican art and culture, Bonifacio is custodian to some of the island’s most splendid architecture, buildings, monuments and churches. Ancient symbols of the territory’s rich culture, these buildings have been beautifully maintained in all their past grandeur, serving as magnificent reminders of past centuries and the events which have occurred in Bonifacio. From the High City to the Old City, the small streets and grand squares, Bonifacio is home to incredible pieces of art and history including the Church of St. Maria Maggiore, Port Genova, the ancient access point into the fortified city, the Bastion of Stendardo and the Church of St Domenico, a beautiful example of the area’s rich Gothic art. The Place des Armes, the Stairs of the King of Aragon and Marine Cemetery are also in Bonifacio and are places of great significance and sacredness, indicating the important place Bonifacio has in the heart of the people and the history of the country.

The incredible variety of buildings in Bonifacio, each so different from the other, demonstrate the many nations which have ruled the town and created a place of such rich diversity and culture. The origins of Bonifacio date back to 883 AD when it was built by a Tuscan count known as Bonifacio. However, others believe the territory was already populated by primitive civilizations 6000 years ago. The area was then ruled by the Greeks, followed by the Romans and then by the Saracens. After being controlled by the Republic of Pisa, the town passed to the Republic of Genoa, before being taken over by the French in 1768.