Calvì

Calvì is one of the most famous and important locations in Corsica, internationally recognized for its history and the extraordinary beauty of its monuments, churches and architecture. Located in the north of Corsica, in Balagne, Calvi is surrounded by a natural paradise of incredible splendor and is only kilometres from the beach and verdant countryside. A fascinatingly unique town, Calvi boasts a charming mix of natural beauty and a rich historical heritage, making it unlike anywhere else in the world.

A wonderful centre of Corsican culture, art and tradition, Calvi takes visitors on a trip into the past, kept alive today by the ancient monuments, grand churches, elegant buildings and squares which have been carefully maintained in all their past beauty and splendor.

The Church of St. Giovanni Battista, is an example of the rich heritage in Calvi and was built in the 13th century but later reconstructed in the 16th century. The Church of St Maria Maggiore and the Church of St. Jean Baptiste are also beautiful symbols of the island’s Baroque period and custodians of incredible works of art, including “The Christ of Miracles.” The oratory of the Confraternity of St Antonio also houses artistic masterpieces and alfresco works. But it is the Trinity Church of St John which best demonstrates the romantic and unique religious history of Calvi. Home to priceless paintings and statues, this church includes a fascinating piece which depicts a man trying to remove a thorn from his foot, symbolizing the evil that pierces the human soul.

Calvi’s history and beauty is not restricted to its churches, with many of the town’s streets hiding incredible buildings and monuments. There is the House of Christopher Columbus, which according to legend, was the home of the famous explorer, the Square of the Governors, one of the oldest buildings in the town, Square of the Vescovi of Sagone, the Salt Tower, the wonderful and fascinating Monument to the Dead by acclaimed artist Emmanuel Frèmiet and finally the Tomb of Christopher Columbus.

A town of breathtaking historical and artistic heritage, Calvi was already inhabited during the Neolithic age. Under the Roman Empire, the region became a place of great importance and power, but suffered brutal attacks from the Vandals and the Saracens in the subsequent centuries. It wasn’t until the 13th century that Calvi began to reclaim some of its significance, becoming one of the greatest powers in the Mediterranean thanks to policies implemented by the ruling city of Genoa. The town then suffered many bloody battles and sieges, becoming a French territory in 1768 despite various attempts at independence.