A mountain town in central Corsica, home to France's only Corsican language university and a 15th-century citadel perched on a limestone cliff.
Located in central Corsica at 486 meters altitude, Corte spreads across granite cliffs where the Tavignano and Restonica rivers meet. The town's 15th-century citadel houses the Museum of Corsica, while its university district buzzes with student cafes. Nearby mountain trails lead to Lake Melo and Lake Capitello, and you can swim in the clear pools of the Tavignano Gorge.
Walking Through Old Town Streets
The historic center climbs uphill through narrow lanes lined with schist stone houses and traditional Genoese shutters. Place Gaffori forms the main square, where you can see bullet holes from 18th-century battles on the facade of Maison Gaffori. Visit the 15th-century Church of the Annunciation to see its baroque interior from 1655 and the wax figure of St. Theophilus.
University Life and Modern Corte
The Pasquale Paoli University, established in 1981, has transformed Corte into an active academic center with over 4,000 students. Students fill the cafes along Cours Paoli, the main commercial street. The university hosts regular events and exhibitions during academic terms, from art shows to cultural festivals.
The Citadel and Museum
The citadel rises 400 meters above town, with its original Eagle's Nest tower dating to 1419. Additional fortifications were built in 1769. The Museum of Corsica (open Tuesday-Sunday, 10:00-17:00) occupies the former military barracks inside the citadel walls. Walk through exhibits about island culture and anthropology while noting the preserved military architecture.
Mountain Lakes and Rivers
From Corte, hike the 4-kilometer marked trail to Lake Melo, continuing another kilometer to reach Lake Capitello. The Tavignano Gorge trail extends 12 kilometers along an old mule path, with swimming spots every few kilometers. Both trails connect to the GR20, Corsica's main hiking route. The best time for hiking is from June to September.
Getting Around
The train station at the bottom of town connects to Ajaccio (84 km), Bastia (70 km), and Calvi via the Corsican Railway. Trains run several times daily in each direction. If driving, take the T20 main road to reach major coastal cities. Local buses run from the station to the citadel during summer months.
