Miomo Tower

Overlooking the sea at the heart of the Miomo marina, this emblematic tower on Cap Corse invites you to delve into the history of the coastline. With its heritage, landscapes and memories of the old coastal defences, it's a must-see stopover on the outskirts of Bastia.

📍 Identity card

  • Name : Miomo Tower (Torra di Miomu)
  • Location: Santa-Maria-di-Lota
  • Period : 16th century (mentioned as early as 1561)
  • Type : Genoese defence tower
  • Height : 13 metres
  • Architecture : Circular floor plan, terrace with machicolation and guardiole (watchtower)
  • Function : Maritime surveillance and defence against barbarian invasions
  • Status : Historic monument (listed in 1927)
  • Ownership : Collectivité de Corse
  • Catering : Programme partly funded by the European Union

History

Situated on the seafront, in the heart of the Miomo marina, the Tour de Miomo is one of the emblems of Cap Corse's heritage. Erected in the 16th century, it bears witness to the turbulent history of the coastline and the need to protect populations from invasions from the sea.

Built at the instigation of the Republic of Genoa, this 13-metre-high circular tower was once used for coastal surveillance and defence against barbarian incursions. Like many of the towers on Cap Corse, it was part of a strategic watch network, a veritable line of maritime defence.

Completely restored, thanks in particular to a programme supported by the European Union, the tower now offers a new visitor experience. On several levels, it offers immersive and educational features: an animated film, explanatory panels, an accessible model, and even an artistic creation evoking the history of the maritime attacks. From its roof terrace, the view opens out onto the Tyrrhenian Sea, reminding visitors of its role as a sentinel of the coastline.

Now protected as a Historic Monument, the Tour de Miomo is a must-see if you want to understand the history and landscape of Cap Corse.

Did you know?

The Genoese towers once formed a veritable surveillance network: when danger was spotted at sea, fire or smoke signals quickly alerted the entire coast.