Furiani, the medieval village
Just outside Bastia, the medieval village of Furiani faces the island of Elba, with breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Overlooking the vast Chjurlinu pond, This former seigneurial stronghold on the east coast still bears the mark of its rich past. At the heart of the village, built on a rocky spur, an imposing square tower from the Middle Ages is the last vestige of Furiani's former castle.
Surrounded by this ancient Genoese fortress, The old houses with their high facades stand proudly. Built into the hillsides, these traditional dwellings of rural Corsica give the hinterland of Bastia its true character. The narrow cobbled streets winding between wash-houses, fountains and bread ovens are enough to take you on a stroll through history. It's here, at the top of the village, that the commune reserves one of its jewels. A short hour's walk away from any «intruders», the chapel of santa Maria Assunta goes back in time to the 10th century. Built on a plateau, this ancient Romanesque church is even said to have housed a hermitage. On this promontory popular with walkers, the authenticity of the site has stood the test of time, and the panoramic views are enough to reveal the other side of the village.
On its coastline, the commune has taken advantage of the rural exodus of the last century to develop its economy, with the establishment of a number of dynamic businesses. the first brewery in Corsican history, the Pietra Brewery opened its doors on the Furiani plain in 1996 to produce its famous beers made with chestnut flour and maquis herbs.
Just a stone's throw away is another facility for which the town is famous: sadly remembered for the tragedy of 5 May 1 992, the Armand-Cesari stadium welcomes the sporting Club de Bastia. it has been the cradle of «blue passion» for almost a century.
The Pauline Tower
This former Genoese fortress has been converted into a tower known as the « Paoline »to 18th century. The architecture of this building distinguishes it from the traditional Genoese towers most often found on the Corsican coast.
Did you know?
The tower at Furiani was completely rebuilt after 1763 by Pascal Paoli, hence its name «Paoline Tower».
La Chapelle Sainte Marie
Roman Treasure the pride and joy of the local community. Located to the south of the village, listed as a historic monument in 1992, The chapel was once a gathering place for the faithful of the canton. Halfway between the villages of Furiani and Biguglia, Take in the breathtaking panorama that this site has to offer. Around this ancient place of worship, the ruins of a small building still stand, possibly a former hermitage. There is still some doubt as to the date of this chapel. Although historians do not agree on its date of construction, it would appear that it was built around the 9th century.
Walk to the chapel of Saint Mary
The bucolic, enchanting setting is perfect for a family break: picnic or snack in the shade of the chapel overlooking the sea. A moment of pleasure for your senses, your taste buds and your eyes!
Discover these picturesque villages with their rich heritage
These are places steeped in history, immersing visitors in the centuries that have made this land so rich, and speaking of the people who live here. All the more reason to get a taste of authentic Corsica, in the heart of the villages.