Details About Bastia

Destinations » Mediterranean » Mediterranean - Western » Bastia


Corsica’s northern capital, Bastia, is the center of commerce and industry and a thriving freight and passenger port. Commerce, more than tourism, is its main focus, providing employment for many Corsicans. Bastia’s industrial sprawl is offset by its aged charm. The presence of an overwhelming Italian character adds to the city’s attraction. Two distinct areas comprise the city:Terra Vecchia, the old quarter with its haphazard streets and flamboyant Baroque churches, and the more orderly Terra Nova, representing the administrative core of old Bastia.
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Activities

Oratoire de Saint-RochLocated in the Terra Vecchia quarter, the chapel is a Genoese Baroque extravaganza built in 1604. The walls are covered with finely carved wooden paneling and the organ is magnificent with its decoration of gilt and wooden sculpture. Oratoire de L’Immaculee ConceptionAlthough its exterior is rather austere, the flamboyant interior of this 17th-century church with gilt and marble ceiling, frescoes and crystal chandeliers creates an ambiance of an opera house. Vieux PortSite of the original Porto Prado, the area around the Vieux Port is the most appealing part of town. Its soaring houses seem to bend inwards towards the water. Once busy with Genoese traders, the building of commercial docks and a ferry terminal have diminished the importance of the old port. Terra NovaAs the administrative core of old Bastia, Terra Nova displays a distinct air of affluence. Its most impressive building is the 14th-century Governor’s Palace. During the Genoese heyday the governor and the bishop lived here, entertaining foreign dignitaries and hosting massive parties.

Shopping

The main shopping streets, Boulevard Paoli and Rue Cesar Campinchi, are 200 yards from the port terminal. Handicrafts and the area’s specialties such as honey, wine and liqueurs may be of interest. Most shops are open from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Some shops may be closed Monday mornings.

Currency

The Euro (EUR), the currency of the European Union, is the official currency of France.

 
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